Former Sunderland striker Craig Russell has annnounced on social media that he is leaving the club after 12 years within the club's medical department.
The 47-year-old came through the ranks on Wearside and made more than 150 appearances and scored 34 goals for the Black Cats between 1991 and 1997, before joining Manchester City.
And he returned to his boyhood club in an off-field role as sports therapist in 2009 under then-boss Steve Bruce.
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But Russell is now departing, confirming on twitter: "500+ games, 12 years, 12 managers, 12 countries visited with Sunderland AFC. Worked with some brilliant people. Sad that my time has come to an end at the Academy of Light but looking forward to the new chapter that begins #SAFC "
Russell was a popular member of the backroom team at the Academy of Light, and it was no suprise to see a series of former players taking to twitter to react to his post.
Northern Ireland defender Conor McLaughlin, who was released by the club this summer, said: "Sorry to hear mate. Always enjoyed our chats and your tunes in the morning. All the best for the future mate."
Sunderland academy product and now Hartlepool player Luke Molyneux added simply: "Legend."
And Russell's former Sunderland teammate Lee Howey said: "All the very best to you mate."
