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Phil Neville confirmed Tuesday that he plans to leave Everton at the conclusion of the season.

The 36-year-old joined Everton from Manchester United in 2005 and has said that he wants to continue playing football at the highest level.

"It's been an honor to play for and captain Everton Football Club," Neville said in a statement published on the club's official website. "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time on Merseyside and will leave with immense pride. I would like to thank the manager, chairman, all of the staff and the players at Everton for their continued support during my time at the club.

"I'd also like to pay a special thanks to the fans, who have been amazing over the past eight years and Everton will always have a place in my heart. I want to continue to play at the top level as long as I physically can, and will be weighing up my options before making a decision on my next move. I'll now be doing everything I can to help Everton finish as high up the league table as possible."

Everton, sitting in sixth place on 52 points, is vying for a fourth-place finish and a vital Champions League qualification berth.