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Ryan Shotton is the first player to depart Melbourne Victory amid the club's woeful A-League season, with the English defender making an early exit.

English defender Ryan Shotton has departed Melbourne Victory after just eight games for the A-League strugglers.

The injured centre-back will return to England with his family on Friday after agreeing to part ways with Victory.

Shotton signed in December 2020 after a long career in the Premier League and English Championship for several clubs including Stoke City, Derby County, Birmingham City and Middlesbrough.

But he spent most of his short career at Victory on the injury list, playing eight of 23 games as a groin injury and a knee issue, derailed his season.

"I would like to thank the club for providing me with the opportunity to come and play for Melbourne Victory," Shotton said.

"It has obviously been a disappointing season and I wish I was able to contribute more on the pitch this year.

"That said, I really enjoyed mentoring and working with the boys around the club and I would like to thank the coaching staff and my teammates for their support over the course of the season."

Victory sit 11th on the A-League table with three games remaining.

They have been unable to get the best out of their international signings with Shotton, Rudy Gestede, Callum McManaman and Jacob Butterfield all struggling to find either form or fitness.

Victory are expected to overhaul their squad under incoming coach Tony Popovic, who starts his tenure in July.