Steed Malbranque quits St. Etienne on mutual consent

French midfielder Steed Malbranque has quit St. Etienne after it was agreed to terminate his contract at the Ligue 1 side through mutual consent. This news arrives after and in direct contrast to reports that broke out saying the Malbranque was quitting football in order to take care of his son who was suffering from cancer. Tributes started pouring on for the classy way in which the Frenchman had chosen family over money from the media, only to see cold water poured over the hysteria the very next day. Those reports were rubbished by his lawyers who revealed that Malbranque does not have a son, but two daughters and that no family member of his is ill.

Today, the French midfielder’s club St. Etienne released a statement breaking the news of the termination of the contract through mutual consent.

“At a meeting held Monday night between the management of AS St Etienne and Steed Malbranque, both parties have decided, by mutual agreement, to amicably end their collaboration.

“St Etienne and the player would like to strongly deny all the rumours referring to the health of Steed Malbranque or children that accompanied the decision of the individual.

“This choice is his alone and ASSE fully respects Steed’s will. The management of AS St Etienne would like to wish Steed the best in his choices and his future life.”

Malbranque moved to St. Etienne on a two year deal after being released by Sunderland, whom he represented for 3 years, and his stay at the French club lasted just a month and 27 minutes of playing time.