Nigerian Gabriel Reuben released by Kilmarnock

Nigeria midfielder Gabriel Reuben has been released by Kilmarnock after the Scottish Premiership club accepted his request to terminate his contract.

Reuben, 23, joined from Kano Pillars on a three-year contract in April.

But after failing to win a regular place in the team after recovering from injury, he gave notice to the club in November that he wanted to quit.

"I'm happy that my wish to leave was granted. The plan is to explore other avenues," Reuben told told BBC Sport.

"I wish the club and fans all the best."

Reuben returned to fitness in August following a three-month spell on the sidelines with a groin injury and he was part of the Nigeria squad that qualified for the 2014 World Cup.

But with his first-team chances limited at Kilmarnock, Reuben has opted to move to improve his chances of retaining his place in his country's squad for the tournament in Brazil.

Gabriel Reuben's agent, Tony Harris, has confirmed that there are strong interest from several clubs for the Super Eagle.

"The club has agreed to his request to leave so he can look to make a fresh start elsewhere," Harris said.

"I'm pleased with the outcome. There are clubs interested in signing him already. His future will be resolved very soon."

Meanwhile, BBC Sport understands Gabriel's compatriot Rabiu Ibrahim is also expected to leave Kilmarnock.

The 22-year-old midfielder has not featured since collapsing during the 2-0 win over Ross County on 19 October.

He spent two nights in hospital undergoing tests but he returned to the squad - confined to the bench - after given the green light to return to action.

The creative midfielder is expected to finalise a mutual termination with the Scottish side this week.