Ross Stewart sends classy farewell message to 'amazing' Sunderland fans after 'surreal' journey
The Scotland international left Wearside for Southampton in a £10m deadline day deal
Ross Stewart has paid tribute to Sunderland's 'amazing' fans following his deadline day £10m move to Championship rivals Southampton. The Scotland international, who scored 40 goals in just 81 Black Cats appearances, was out of contract next summer and the club faced losing him for nothing.
With no new deal agreed, Sunderland made the decision to accept Southampton's bid, with the playing head out on September 1 after a successful, if injury-hit, spell on Wearside. Many fans were unhappy to see him leave, although Saturday's 5-0 win over the Saints went a along way to heal those wounds.
And the 27-year-old has now sent a message to the club and the supporters, reflecting on his time in the red-and-white stripes.
READ MORE: Kristjaan Speakman says Sunderland 'maximised' Ross Stewart's 'potential'
"After getting some time to reflect over the last couple of frantic days, I wanted to write this message to say thank you to everyone at Sunderland AFC for giving me the opportunity to play and represent such a fantastic club," he wrote.
"The journey was surreal, from making my debut at Accrington Stanley to my final game at Fulham. I will always remember winning promotion with you at Wembley Stadium - the noise of the Red and White Army and experiencing that feeling with my incredible team-mates.
"I would like to thank the head coach and backroom staff, including the medical team who have helped over the last few months in a way that is difficult to express.
"To the Sunderland fans, you really are amazing and you really do take over everywhere you go! You took to me in a way I could only have dreamed of - the nickname of the ‘Loch Ness Drogba’ that you sang about me every game is a feeling that will live with me for the rest of my life. I wish everyone connected with the club all the very best for the future. Thank you. Ross."
Sunderland will face Southampton in the return game at St Mary's on March 9, 2024.