Official: Liverpool Confirm Daniel Agger Departure to Brondby

Liverpool have confirmed the departure of defender Daniel Agger, who has left the club to join his hometown club Brondby in Denmark.

"Liverpool have today confirmed that defender Daniel Agger has sealed a permanent return to his former team, Brondby," a statement on their official site read.

Agger has only played for two clubs in his career. He rose through the youth ranks at Brondby and played there for a decade before moving to Merseyside in 2006.

"Liverpool have been such a big part of my life and my family's lives for so long, that leaving is extremely difficult," Agger told Liverpool's official site.

"The opportunity arose for me to return home to Brondby and at this stage of my career it felt like the right decision for me."

The Danish international has been linked with moves away from the club in the past with Spanish giants Barcelona and Premier League rivals Arsenal showing interest in the defender. But he has revealed that he refused all the overtures as he couldn't see himself playing for another club in England or Europe

"I wouldn't leave here to go anywhere else and that has been proven by my actions in recent seasons - I have turned down many offers to move to other Premier League and European clubs," the Danish defender explained.

"I would like to thank the Liverpool supporters for the incredible backing they have given me in my time here and the warmth and generosity of spirit displayed to my family."

"The club itself is very special and I shall remain a supporter for the rest of my life. I regard every game I played at Anfield as a privilege," the 29-year-old defender added.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, who managed Agger for two full seasons, has praised the defender's attitude and has also revealed that he understands the reason for the Dane's decision to return to his former club.

"We wish Daniel and his family well for the future. We've been discussing Daniel's future with him during the close season and I know this is a decision he has reached after much soul searching and deliberation," Rodgers said.

"Daniel loves Liverpool and the club's supporters, and has a unique connection with them."

"When we had the privilege to play Brondby in pre-season, we saw the esteem he is held in and I can understand why he would want to return there."

"On behalf of everyone at Liverpool, I thank Daniel for his service to the club and hope he finishes his career with some happy times in Denmark," the Northern Irishman added.