Wednesday 31 December 2014 17:50, UK
Wigan have confirmed Roger Espinoza's departure, with the Honduras international returning to the United States.
Midfielder Espinoza had six months left to run on his Latics deal but the Sky Bet Championship club have allowed the 28-year-old to walk away early after two years at the DW Stadium.
Earlier this season Espinoza, who is understood to be returning to MLS side Sporting Kansas City, had denied previous manager Uwe Rosler's claims that he was "homesick" but current boss Malky Mackay did not stand in his way when the opportunity to return to the States materalised.
"I'd just like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to him," Mackay said after Espinoza brought the curtain down on his Wigan career in Tuesday's 1-0 loss to Sheffield Wednesday.
"He's a terrific lad. His heart's set on going to live back in Kansas City again and that was always going to be the case. It's something that had been agreed with the previous manager in terms of the ability for him to go this season. We spoke and as of January 1 he will be leaving us.
"He's been a terrific servant of this football club over a period of years. Even tonight and Saturday when he's made an impact...he could quite easily have looked as if he didn't want to be involved. But up to the last training session he's done really well. I wish him all the best throughout his future career."
