The story was published prematurely on their website with the note "Don't Publish", revealing details of the 33 year old's departure from the club.

Vargas's contract was up at the end of the season and Victory have opted not to renew it as coach Jim Magilton's clear out of the old Victory vanguard begins in earnest.

Since joining the club in season two, Vargas made more appearances than any other player, helping it to win two Premiership/Championship doubles, scoring seven goals along the way.

Vargas joined from Victorian Premier League club Green Gully and quickly established himself as one of the competition’s top defenders, continually putting his body on the line, yet very rarely missing games through injury.

Vargas said he was grateful for the opportunity given to him, which led to two Socceroo caps.

“It’s been a privilege being able to play for the most successful club in the league, in my hometown, in front of my family and friends, for the best fans in the country,” he said.

“The two Premiership/Championship doubles won in front of packed out Etihad Stadium’s remain highlights of my time at Melbourne Victory.”

Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Richard Wilson, said, “Roddy has been a fantastic professional over the years and we thank him for his great contribution to our club.

“He was a warrior in every sense of the word, continually getting himself up for games when others may have opted to sit out through injury.

“The fact that he won a Victory medal among such a talented and successful squad is testament to himself and his capabilities as a footballer.”

The club today promised to honour Rodrigo at the 2011/12 Victory Medal Night and also vowed to let fans pay tribute to him next season, after Victory's season came to an end on Saturday.