Arsenal have confirmed that two-time Women’s World Cup winner Tobin Heath has been released from her contract early by mutual consent.

The 33-year-old joined the club at the beginning of the season following a one-year spell with WSL rivals Manchester United, though she never established herself as a regular starter in what is a fiercely competitive Arsenal side.

Heath suffered a minor hamstring strain during Arsenal training last week and the decision has now been made to end her contract early – with the problem due to rule the 181-cap United States international out of the club’s remaining WSL games.

“Although I’m disappointed that my time at Arsenal has come to an early end, I have loved every minute of my time here,“ Heath told the club’s official website of the decision to part ways.

„I would like to thank everyone at the Club who has made me feel so welcome. Arsenal is a special Club and this is a special group of players. I have no doubt that they are bound for success in the near future and I’ll be supporting the team with the rest of the Arsenal family from now on.”

Jonas Eidevall, the club’s head coach, added of Heath’s time with the Gunners: “It’s been a pleasure to work with Tobin this season. She has made an important contribution both on and off the pitch, with her mentality and character setting a great example to the entire group.

„We wish Tobin well for the future and look forward to seeing what comes next for her.”

Heath has spent most of her career playing in the United States, primarily with the Portland Thorns, and has also spent time in France with Paris Saint-Germain. She made 18 appearances for Arsenal, scoring three goals.