Luckless Sunderland midfielder Colin Healy has decided to leave the club when his contract expires next week after more than two years out injured.
The 25-year-old former Celtic player has not figured since sustaining an horrendous leg fracture at Coventry in December 2003, and will leave the Stadium of Light when his existing six-month deal runs out.
Healy, who played for manager Mick McCarthy during his spell in charge of the Republic of Ireland national side, will return to his native country to consider his options, although has been offered the chance to continue to work with the club's medical staff in a bid to reach full fitness.
