Former England full-back Nick Abendanon will join French giants Clermont Auvergne from Bath at the end of this season, the Premiership side announced Monday. The 27-year-old, who won his two England caps back in 2007, will be released a year early from his contract with south-west side Bath after Clermont agreed to pay a transfer fee. "Nick has been a great player for Bath, and we thank him for all he's done over the years," said Bath head coach Mike Ford in a club statement. "He felt it was time to go and that Clermont represented an opportunity he couldn't turn down. I know Nick will remain totally committed to our cause this season." Meanwhile Abendanon, who has made nearly 200 first-team appearances for Bath, said he was looking forward to the prospect of playing for Clermont, beaten 16-15 in last season's European Cup final by French rivals Toulon. "I have loved every minute I have played for Bath and want to thank the club for giving me the opportunities they have done," said Abendanon. "This has been an extremely hard decision for me, but I feel this is the right time to challenge myself in a new environment." Source: AFP