Brisbane have granted midfielder Andrew Raines an immediate release from the club.

Raines, 28, was off-contract at season’s end but has been granted an early release by the Lions in order to seek a deal at another AFL club.

Despite playing just four AFL matches for the Lions in 2014, Raines has indicated he wants to play on next season.

After being drafted by Richmond in 2003, Raines has played 123 matches including 67 for the Lions following his arrival at the Gabba in 2009.

A winner of the club’s most professional player award in 2012, Raines leaves the Lions with their best wishes.

“He has consistently set a fantastic example to our younger players of just what it takes to be a professional AFL player,” Lions football manager Dean Warren said.

“We wish him all the very best for whatever his future holds.”