DEFENDER Mathias Kouo-Doumbe has left the Pilgrims.

The popular Frenchman has had his contract with us cancelled by mutual agreement.

The move paves the way for Mat to be able to join another club without a fee having to be paid.

Mat leaves us after five years at Home Park during which he made 142 appearances, scoring four goals.

Manager Paul Sturrock paid glowing tribute to the former Paris St Germain and Hibernian player.

He said: "I would like to thank Mat, personally, for the loyal service that he has given to Argyle down the years,

"He has played his full part in the progress of the club in the last five years, and will rightly be remembered with affection by the fans for many years to come.

"I do, however, feel that he is at the stage of his career where he deserves to be playing regularly in someone's first team.

"It will do him good to enjoy a fresh challenge."

Blessed with fantastic pace, Mat has been an integral part of the Championship years since he was signed by former manager Bobby Williamson.

Mat followed Williamson from Hibernian in 2001 after joining the Scottish club from Paris St Germain three years earlier.

Mat has been an absolute gentleman and a committed player from day one, and everyone at Home Park wishes him the very best at his new club.