Liverpool have today confirmed that defender Daniel Agger has sealed a permanent return to his former team, Brondby.

The 29-year-old - a two-club man - started his career with the Danish outfit, progressing through the youth ranks at the Brondby Stadion and spending a decade with the Superliga side.

Agger's powerful defensive attributes, composure in possession and natural athleticism brought interest from teams around Europe and the Reds won the race for his signature in January 2006.

During almost nine years with Liverpool, the centre-back made 232 appearances, scoring 14 goals and lifting one trophy, the 2012 Carling Cup, after starting the final against Cardiff City at Wembley.

"Liverpool have been such a big part of my life and my family's lives for so long, that leaving is extremely difficult," Agger told Liverpoolfc.com.

"The opportunity arose for me to return home to Brondby and at this stage of my career it felt like the right decision for me.

"I wouldn't leave here to go anywhere else and that has been proven by my actions in recent seasons - I have turned down many offers to move to other Premier League and European clubs.

"I would like to thank the Liverpool supporters for the incredible backing they have given me in my time here and the warmth and generosity of spirit displayed to my family.

"This has been our home and somewhere we have been very happy and settled. However, more recently I have started to feel the effects of playing regularly in a league that is as physically demanding as the Premier League is, and I would not want to stay if I did not think that I was able to meet that challenge week in, week out.

"The club itself is very special and I shall remain a supporter for the rest of my life. I regard every game I played at Anfield as a privilege."

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers worked with Agger for two full seasons after taking the reins at Anfield in the summer of 2012, and he paid tribute to the Dane for his attitude and character.

The boss said: "We wish Daniel and his family well for the future. We've been discussing Daniel's future with him during the close season and I know this is a decision he has reached after much soul searching and deliberation.

"Daniel loves Liverpool and the club's supporters, and has a unique connection with them.

"When we had the privilege to play Brondby in pre-season, we saw the esteem he is held in and I can understand why he would want to return there.

"On behalf of everyone at Liverpool, I thank Daniel for his service to the club and hope he finishes his career with some happy times in Denmark."