Belgian defender Birger Maertens has departed Heracles Almelo, the Eredivisie club have confirmed.
Stopper returns to Belgium
Belgian defender Birger Maertens has departed Heracles Almelo, the Eredivisie club have confirmed.
Maertens had previously stated he would leave Heracles at the end of the season and return to his native Belgium due to personal reasons.
The 31-year-old, who joined the Dutch side from Club Brugge in 2008 and notched up 93 appearances, has decided to leave earlier than planned.
Heracles chairman John Smith said: "Heracles Almelo regret the departure of this valuable player and wish him every success in the future."
Maertens added: "I've always enjoyed playing with this great club."
