West Ham terminate Freddie Ljunberg's contract with immediate effect

West Ham have terminated Swedish captain Freddie Ljunberg's contract with immediate effect.

A statement on the club's official website explained that the 31-year-old midfielder is "assessing his options", and that "these include whether he will continue his career in football or not".

The statement continued: "There is interest in his services from leading clubs at home and on the continent as well as the United States and Asia.

"The decision to part company has been taken jointly and has no bearing on Ljungberg's fitness, which he proved during Euro 2008."

West Ham refused to disclose the terms of the settlement, although stories in this morning's papers suggested that the player could receive a pay-out in the region of £6m.

West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury said: "We respect Freddie Ljungberg's position and are pleased we could reach agreement and wish him all the best in the future. This deal is mutually acceptable to both parties."

Freddie Ljungberg commented: "I gave my all at West Ham and enjoyed my time there but the decision is the best for the both of us. Now I will take my time to consider my football future."

Ljungberg played 28 times for West Ham in his year at the club and scored two goals.

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