Widnes have released Anthony Watts less than a week after handing the Australian a new contract.
The 25-year-old, who joined the Vikings on a 12-month deal from North Queensland Cowboys in the winter, suffered a ruptured cruciate knee ligament 10 minutes into his Stobart Super League debut against Salford.
The injury ruled the utility player out for the rest of the campaign, though the club still offered him a deal to stay with them for 2013.
However, Widnes have now announced they have agreed to release Watts from his contract with immediate effect due to personal reasons.
"I would like to thank Widnes Vikings for the opportunity but I need to return home for personal reasons," Watts said.
"As I suggested recently, I genuinely believe the club will be a huge force within the next few years and go on to achieve great things in the game.
"Unfortunately, I won't be a part of that but I hope the fans continue to show the passion and commitment that I have witnessed in my short time there and help steer this great club back in the right direction.
"I wish all concerned at Widnes Vikings well for the future."