Galatasaray release high-profile duo

Galatasaray SK have begun to reduce the size of their squad by releasing Portuguese defender Abel Xavier and Israeli midfield  player Haim Revivo.

Seeking new clubs
Both players have announced their intentions to look for new clubs in their respective homelands. "I'm glad I finished my career in Europe at a great club like Galatasaray," Revivo said. "I'll keep playing football, but in my own country."

Liverpool loan
Xavier joined the Turkish Super League side on loan from Liverpool FC during the winter transfer window. The 30-year-old, who has won 20 international caps, made eleven appearances for the Istanbul club but struggled to make the right-back position his own.

Contract cut short
Revivo also joined during the January transfer window, from Fenerbahçe SK and made 13 appearances, scoring a hat-trick against Bursaspor. The 31-year-old, who has scored 13 goals in 62 games for Israel, was contracted until 2005.