SUNDERLAND defender Russell Anderson has had his contract terminated by mutual consent.

The Scotland international has been beset by injuries since moving to the Stadium of Light from Aberdeen in 2007.

The 31-year-old had made over 300 appearances during a ten-year spell at Pittodrie, but was limited to a single substitute outing for the Black Cats against Wigan in 2007.

He spent the final stage of the 2007-08 season on loan at Plymouth, but suffered a cruciate ligament injury when on loan at Burnley the following season, which kept him out for 14 months.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce said: "This decision has been taken with Russell to give him an opportunity to find a club where he can fulfil his desire to play more first team football.

"He has been very unfortunate with injuries since he came here, but his attitude and determination to get back playing have been exemplary. We wish him all the very best for the future."