Chris Fairclough and York City have parted company, it was announced today.

The veteran central defender, 36, has yet to play this season following an operation on both knees during the summer.

A statement issued by the club stated: "The Board have reviewed the situation with respect to Chris Fairclough's contract and decided that in the circumstances it is not to the advantage of either party to continue with his contract, which in any event ends on June 2001.

"We have regretfully therefore terminated his contract with immediate effect."

On a number of occasions this season when Fairclough has returned to full-training the former Leeds United, Tottenham and Nottingham Forest ace has broken down with calf and hamstring troubles.

He made a brief reserve team outing in September but was unable to complete a full 90-minutes.

Fairclough was Neil Thompson's first signing in March 1999, initially on loan from Notts County.

He figured in the last 11 games of City's relegation season but was confirmed as captain by Thompson at the start of the next season after signing full-time terms.

Last season he made 26 appearances, including his 500th League appearance on April 1.

However, injury problems were already taking their toll and Fairclough's 500th appearance against Southend was one of only three starts he made in 2000.

Updated: 14:07 Tuesday, February 06, 2001