Jimmy Calderwood's five-year reign as Aberdeen manager was over tonight after he and assistants Jimmy Nicholl and Sandy Clark left the club ``by mutual consent''.

A downcast Calderwood had initially refused to confirm he would be in charge at Pittodrie next season after today's 2-1 win over Hibernian on the final afternoon of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League campaign.

That result saw Aberdeen snatch the SPL's final Europa League spot, the second time Calderwood has led the club into Europe in three years.

Calderwood said: ``Aberdeen is such a wonderful club and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, as indeed have Jimmy and Sandy.

``However, after five seasons, I feel the time is right for a fresh challenge. I'm moving on with so many happy memories of the club and the area and I would like to thank the fans for their support as the vast majority have been fantastic.

``I would also wish Aberdeen Football Club all the very best for the future and I depart knowing my successor will have a solid platform from which to move forward including the return of European football next season.''

Director of football Willie Miller added: ``On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Jimmy, Jimmy and Sandy for the substantial contribution they have made in stabilising things over the past five years, including of course, qualification again for Europe this afternoon.

``When they arrived, there was a massive rebuilding task required and subsequently we have seen the fruits of their efforts with regular top-six finishes in the league and a return to Europe, notably the fantastic run two seasons ago which saw us reach the last 32 of the UEFA Cup.

``While the absence of a domestic trophy continues to be a source of frustration for everyone connected with AFC, the three of them can be proud of what they have achieved and we wish them every success for the future.''