The New York Giants have announced that they have released defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka.

Kiwanuka joined the club in 2006 when he was drafted in the first round, and went on to play an integral part of their two Super Bowl triumphs in the 2007 and 2011 seasons.

However, the 31-year-old's production declined in the last campaign, and the Giants have taken the decision to cut him to save up to $4.8m (£3.1m) on the salary cap.

"The thing that has always impressed me about Kiwi is how serious he is about the game," head coach Tom Coughlin told the club's official website.

"He was always prepared and always in outstanding condition and played very hard. And he had some nasty in him. His character and professionalism and serious approach to the game will be missed."

Kiwanuka recorded 412 tackles, 38.5 sacks and three interceptions in his nine years with the Giants.