Saints let Chala leave

The 31-year-old has failed to make the breakthrough on the South Coast since moving from El Nacional just over a year ago.

Chala never made a first-team appearance for The Saints and has been allowed to return to his native homeland in search for a new club.

Saints chairman Rupert Lowe admitted that an agreement had been reached between both parties as Chala was keen to be playing regularly which he could not be guaranteed at St Mary's.

"It was all very amicable. Kleber has behaved in a very professional manner," Lowe told the club's official website. "He has made a big effort to learn English and to try and force his way into the side.

"He has been unable to do that, not from a lack of ability but because the team is playing extremely well this season and, like several other talented players, he has not been able to get in the side.

"He is a respected international and at this stage of his career he needs to be playing first-team football and after discussions with Gordon Strachan and me, he has decided he is better off going home to pursue his career in Ecuador.

"His family are back home in Ecuador and we understand that he wants to be there with them, especially if he is not figuring here.

"I would like to pay tribute to his professionalism because he has made an effort and he has not rocked the boat in any way. We wish him well."