PORTUGUESE defender Abel Xavier has left Middlesbrough after failing to reach an agreement over a new contract.

The 34-year-old, who rejoined Boro in November after serving a year long ban for a drugs offence, has been unhappy with the terms offered to him at the Riverside Stadium.

And yesterday it was confirmed that Xavier and the club have reached an agreement to part ahead of Sunday's final Premiership fixture with Fulham.

"We have been unable to give Abel the terms he was looking for so Abel has decided to move on for a new opportunity," said manager Gareth Southgate.

"I am disappointed Abel has decided not to stay with us but I'd like to thank him for his contribution. He always did well when called upon and we wish him all the best."

Xavier initially joined Boro in the the summer of 2005 but tested positive for using a banned substance after a UEFA Cup fixture with Greek outfit Xanthi a couple of months later.

He returned to Teesside last November and was keen to repay Middlesbrough for the way they stood by him during his fight to clear his name.