Veteran USA striker and Fulham captain Brian McBride is set to return to his homeland after deciding to leave Craven Cottage.

The 36-year-old former Everton, Preston, Wolfsburg and Chicago Fire hit-man was expected to leave the West London club after his contract expired at the end of the 2007/8 season.

And, despite helping the Cottagers avoid relegation on the last day of the campaign, McBride has called time on his four-and-a-half years at the club.

"After much consideration with my family, we have decided to leave Fulham after four and a half fantastic years," McBride stated. "I have always stated my intention to return to America at some stage and this seems like the right moment in my career to move on.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the club, the chairman [Mohammed Al-Fayed], the staff and wonderful fans for all their support, on and off the pitch, during my time at Fulham."

McBride scored 32 Premier League goals for Fulham, and his return from serious injury was credited as one of the factors that helped the club stay up.

"I take great pride in the fact that my last appearance for Fulham saw the club maintain its Premier League status," he added.

"I leave with some wonderful memories and the club will always be in my heart.

"I would like to wish the club, [manager] Roy Hodgson and my team-mates every success for the future."

McBride is the second USA international to leave Fulham this summer, after defender Carlos Bocanegra was told by Hodgson that he no longer featured in the club's plans.

The Whites have been linked with a move for Rangers striker Daniel Cousin, who was barred from transferring in January by FIFA.

Reda Maher / Eurosport