Anderson joined Sunderland from Aberdeen in June 2007

Sunderland have cancelled the contract of Scotland international defender Russell Anderson by mutual consent.

Anderson, 31, was signed by former boss Roy Keane from Scottish side Aberdeen for £1m in June 2007 but made just two appearances for the Black Cats.

"This decision has been taken to give him an opportunity to find a club where he can fulfil his desire to play," said Sunderland boss Steve Bruce.

"His attitude and determination to get back playing have been exemplary."

The centre-back made more than 300 appearances for Aberdeen during an 11-year stay at Pittodrie and captained them.

He started just one game for Sunderland and had loan spells with Plymouth and Burnley, with his last first-team game for the Clarets against Fulham in September 2008.

He was in talks with Scottish Premier League side Hibernian before his exit from the Stadium of Light.

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