Fabricio Coloccini leaves Newcastle United

Fabricio Coloccini has left Newcastle United and is to head home to Argentina to join San Lorenzo.

Coloccini joined United from Deportivo La Coruna in August 2008 and made his Magpies' debut two days later, against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

He captained Newcastle for the first time in October 2010 against Wigan Athletic, before being named as club captain ahead of the 2011/12 season - a campaign that also saw him named in the PFA Team of the Season.

In total, Coloccini made 275 appearances for United in all competitions, scoring seven goals.

The club said his contract has been terminated by mutual consent.

Managing director Lee Charnley said: "It is rare in football these days that a player gives such length of service to one club and I would like to thank Colo for his contribution to Newcastle United since he joined us before the start of the 2008/09 season.

"In the eight years he has been with us, Colo has become a firm friend and colleague to many players and staff, past and present, who I know will miss him. We wish him all the very best for his future career."