VIDEO: Chelsea icon Maren Mjelde breaks down in tears while announcing she is departing Blues at the end of the season

Chelsea announced on Friday that Norwegian international Mjelde's seven-year spell with the club would end at the conclusion of the season. The 34-year-old has played 140 times for the club and won 12 trophies along the way but her time at the Blues is nearing an end. Following the announcement, the defender posted a teary message to Chelsea and the fans, thanking them for the "best years" of her life.

She told the club's website: "It's been seven great years. I came to the club in 2017. It was a new journey for me, coming to England, to London, playing for such a big club as Chelsea. I think when I look back at all my years, it's been ups and downs but it's been more ups than downs - it's been a hell of a ride."

After breaking down in tears and admitting she was, "So bad at this", Mjelde added: "Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It's been the best years of my life. Thank you."

Mjelde, who also played as a midfielder, has enjoyed a hugely successful period in west London following her move from Avaldsnes IL. She played her part in winning the Women's Super League five times and a host of domestic cups, too. Incidentally, the club say they will honour her achievements in their final home league game of the season against Bristol City on Sunday.

Chelsea, who will also see manager Emma Hayes leave the club this summer, face Bristol on Sunday, before travelling to Tottenham and Manchester United in their final two matches of the season as they try to keep their WSL title hopes alive.