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Mark Milligan to leave Hibernian after final game of season against Aberdeen

Hibernian's Mark Milligan battles for the ball
Image: Milligan has had previous stints playing club football in his native Australia, as well as in Japan, UAE, China and Saudi Arabia

Hibernian have confirmed that midfielder Mark Milligan will leave the Scottish Premiership side after their final game of the season against Aberdeen on Sunday.

The 33-year-old arrived at Easter Road in August 2018 on a free transfer from Saudi Arabian side Ah-Ahli.

Milligan, who can operate at centre-back and as a defensive midfielder, established himself as a regular in Hibs' first team making 27 appearances in all competitions this campaign.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - SEPTEMBER 25: Mark Milligan of Hibernian makes a clearance during the Betfred Scottish League Cup Quarter Final match between Hibernian and Aberdeen on September 25, 2018 in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Image: Milligan battles for the ball during Hibs' Scottish League Cup defeat against Aberdeen in September 2018

He told the club's website: "I'd just like to thank everyone at Hibernian for the opportunity to play for this great club and experience Scottish football.

"I've really enjoyed my time here and I'm sorry it's come to an end.

"I hope the club continues to go from strength to strength and I would like to thank all the wonderful team-mates, members of staff and supporters I've met along the way."

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Highlights of the Scottish Premiership match between Rangers and Hibernian

The Australian international has 79 caps for his country and took over from Mile Jedinak as captain ahead of this year's AFC Asian Cup, where the Socceroos reached the quarter-finals.

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Hibs head coach Paul Heckingbottom added: "Mark has been the ultimate professional since [assistant] Robbie [Stockdale] and I walked through the door, as you would expect from someone who captains his country and has featured in four World Cups.

"His experience and versatility has been important and Mark's been a great influence on our younger players in particular.

"He couldn't have given any more for the cause and I'd like to wish him well for the next chapter in his career."

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On Thursday, Hibernian announced that Mavin Bartley had agreed a pre-contract move to Livingston, while defensive duo David Gray and Darren McGregor both signed new four-year deals last month.

Hibs' Sunday opponents Aberdeen need a draw or a win in their last game and need Kilmarnock to gain less points than they do against Rangers, if the Dons are to reach the Europa League first qualifying round next season.

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