Fábio Aurelio to leave Liverpool after four-year spell

Fábio Aurelio will leave Liverpool after four years of “fantastic service” after the club and player failed to agree on a  new contract.

The Brazilian’s contract was set to expire next week, but the two parties have been unable to come to an agreement over a new deal.

Rafael Benítez hailed 30-year-old’s contribution during his four-year spell at Anfield.

“Fábio is a top professional, a great player and a really good lad. I mean every single word I say about him,” said Benítez.

“It has been a pleasure having him here and we really will miss him.”

The left back struggled with injuries during his initial years at Anfield, but he appeared regularly in the 2008-09 campaign, making some vital contributions to the club’s best ever Premier League finish.

He will be best remembered for his free-kick at Old Trafford which helped the Reds to a famous 4-1 victory over their rivals.

Unfortunately the 30-year-old spent most of last season injured and only made 21 appearances in all competitions.

Aurelio had previously worked under Benítez when both player and manager were employed by Valencia.