Montgomery moving Down Under

Montgomery: Looking forward to opportunity

Sheffield United stalwart Nick Montgomery is heading for Australia after his Bramall Lane contract was terminated by mutual consent.

The 30-year-old midfielder, who is the Blades' longest-serving player, came through the youth ranks and went on to make more than 400 senior appearances for the Blades.

He will now swap Sheffield for Australia as he is expected to join up with the A-League's Central Coast Mariners in the next couple of weeks.

Montgomery told United's official website: "This is something I've always wanted to do and after long talks with the family we have decided that this is the right time to take the opportunity.

"I've loved my time at Sheffield United and will leave with great memories. I have turned down so many opportunities to move in the past but I have always stayed loyal to the club as they have to me.

"You don't stay in one place for as long as I did if you don't have affection for the club, but I appreciate the situation at Bramall Lane and feel it is the right time to move on. I will miss everyone as I have made so many friends over the years."