Steed Malbranque has parted company with Saint-Etienne, just one day after his representatives denied reports that he had retired to care for an ill son.
Stories in France over the weekend claimed that the 31-year-old had quit the game to care for his son, who was suffering with cancer.
Yesterday's statement revealed that Malbranque does not have a son and that he had not decided to retire from the game.
However, a statement on Saint-Etienne's official website this morning confirmed that Malbranque's contract had been terminated.
"At a meeting held Monday night between the management of AS Saint-Etienne and Steed Malbranque, both parties have decided, by mutual agreement, to amicably end their collaboration.
"Saint-Etienne and the player would like to strongly deny all the rumours referring to the health of Steed Malbranque or children that accompanied the decision of the individual.
"This choice is his alone and ASSE fully respects Steed's will."
Malbranque made over 300 Premier League appearances during a ten-year spell in England.
Liam Apicella
