Liverpool let Rodriguez go home

Maxi Rodriguez has left Liverpool on a free transfer to join former club Newell’s Old Boys in his native Argentina.

Midfielder Rodriguez, 31, arrived at Liverpool from La Liga club Atletico Madrid in January 2010.

Playing under Rafael Benitez, Roy Hodgson and Kenny Dalglish, he netted 17 goals from 73 appearances in all competitions.

A 43-cap Argentina international, Rodriguez had a year remaining on his contract and new manager Brendan Rodgers reportedly wanted to keep the experienced player at Anfield.

But he has been granted an early release to return home, with no fee believed to be involved in the switch.

“I’m returning home with a suitcase full of great memories,” Rodriguez wrote on Liverpool’s website.

“Thanks a lot for your support.”

“Before signing for Liverpool, I just saw the club as one of the greatest institutions in football.”

“After my time here I can confirm that this is not just a great club, but also a great family.

“I have tried to give everything every day that I was wearing the LFC crest. It has been a great honour to defend this shirt during two and a half years.”

Rodriguez was given his professional debut by Newell’s in 1999, making 57 appearances for the club before earning a transfer to La Liga, first with Espanyol in 2002 and then on to Atletico in 2005.