Ricketts was a near ever-present and lifted the trophy as Wolves won the League One title in 2013/14.

But last season he found first team opportunities scarce, making just four league appearances and ending the season on loan at League One side Swindon Town.

Before going on loan he had been helping out with coaching duties.

Ricketts, aged 33, will not be retained in a coaching capacity after Wolves didn't offer him a new contract – but the 52-times capped Welsh international didn't rule out returning to Molineux as a coach in the future.

He said: "It was an honour for me to come in and be captain of Wolves and I have had a really enjoyable two years.

"To captain the side to a record-breaking title success is one of the highlights of my career and is something I will always remember.

"It would have been nice to stay here and carry on at Wolves but that is how things can happen in football and I will move on with happy memories of my time at Molineux.

"And who knows? Maybe one day in the future I might be able to come back in a coaching capacity."

Advertising

"I still feel I have plenty left to offer and will hopefully be able to take on something that will provide a good opportunity either on the playing or coaching side."

Ricketts found himself behind Dominic Iorfa and Matt Doherty in the pecking order last year.

Kenny Jackett paid tribute to his captain and said: "Sam found his first team opportunities limited last season, but maintained a highly professional attitude both on and off the pitch.

"In his first season here as captain, he was a major influence and helped the team enjoy some great success with the League One title.

Advertising

"We would all like to thank him for his contribution during his two years at Molineux, and wish him all the best in his future career."

Ricketts scored two goals for Wolves, his first being a memorable 18-yard scorcher to put them 5-4 in front in the unforgettable 6-4 thriller against Rotherham last year.

His second came in the final game of the season against Carlisle when Wolves won 3-0 to put the icing on their League One title-winning campaign, after which Ricketts lifted the trophy in front of a full house at Molineux.

Ricketts added: "I was proud to be able to play a part in what everyone achieved in taking the club one step back towards where they really belong.

"I've played alongside some really good players here, and the fans have been fantastic.

"I want to think Kenny for giving me the opportunity to sign for the club, and also the chairman, Jez and Kevin Thelwell, and wish them all the best for the future.

"I will certainly be keeping a close eye on how Wolves do in the future and will hopefully get back and watch some games when I can.

"I'm now ready and waiting to take on the next challenge of my career."

His release means of Wolves' out-of-contract players, just the futures of Tomasz Kuszczak and Bakary Sako remain undecided, although the latter is almost certain to leave Molineux for a Premier League club.