Kevin MacDonald has brought an end to his 17-year association with Aston Villa.

The former Liverpool midfielder, who has been on the coaching staff at Villa Park since 1995, has overseen the development of such players as Gareth Barry, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Gary Cahill.

"As a club, we are immensely grateful for the contribution Kevin has made in more than 17 years at Villa," chief executive Paul Faulkner told the club's official website.

"He has been an integral part of the success we have enjoyed at academy and reserve team level and, in assuming his caretaker responsibilities at the beginning of the 2010-11 season, he cemented his position as a man who will always command respect at this club.

"The whole of Aston Villa Football Club will wish Kevin well."

Recent reports have claimed that MacDonald is aiming for a fresh challenge with a new club.