SNS GroupAberdeen FC have confirmed the departure of club captain Scott Brown.
The veteran midfielder joined the Dons last summer on a two-year deal in a player-coach role under Stephen Glass after leaving Celtic.
In a statement, Aberdeen said the 36-year-old would depart the club to focus on his first steps towards a managerial career.
The former Scotland captain thanked the team and fans, as well as ex-Aberdeen manager Glass and the club’s board following his time at Pittodrie.
Brown said: “I would like to take this opportunity to firstly thank the board at Aberdeen and, of course, Stephen Glass and his backroom staff, for giving me the opportunity to enjoy my first taste of coaching.
“I’d also like to thank all my team-mates and the great staff both at Cormack Park and Pittodrie.
“I know I was only in the North East for a short period, but the fans made me feel welcome from day one, so my thanks must also go to them for showing me so much support.
“Aberdeen is a huge club and I know there is a real determination from all to deliver success both on and off the pitch. I wish them all the best for the remainder of the season.”
Aberdeen FC director of football Steven Gunn said: “When Scott arrived at the club, we understood his desire to begin his transition into a coaching role and we were clear we would help wherever possible.
“Scott has been an outstanding asset to us in the last eleven months and his contributions, both on and off the pitch, have been invaluable.
“I’ve no doubt he will bring the same desire, determination and will-to-win that he has demonstrated throughout his career when he embarks on this next chapter.”
The midfielder made a total of 33 appearances for the Dons.
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