Everton defender shares poignant letter to fans after confirming his departure in the summer
With a superb statement, Everton defender Matthew Pennington confirmed his departure from the club this summer after 15 years at Goodison Park.
Everton defender Matthew Pennington issued a lovely statement to fans after revealing his departure this summer.
The academy graduate spent nearly 15 years with the Blues on Merseyside, taking on multiple loans in recent seasons.
The undisputed highlight of his tenure at Goodison Park came in a Merseyside derby in April 2017, when the 26-year-old scored his only goal for Everton against Anfield.
After spending the second half of last season on loan with Shrewsbury Town, the defender’s current Blues deal was set to expire this summer.
And Pennington announced his departure from the club with a sincere and classy message, thanking everyone linked with the club for their assistance throughout his stay at Goodison Park.
“My time at Everton has come to an end,” he said on Twitter.
“It feels like it’s been over for a few years now, with many loans given away, but the time has come to officially close the chapter.”
“I’ve spent over 15 years with the club, a place that helped me grow from a boy to a man, and I’ve loved my time there.”
“I can’t thank everyone at the club enough, from the coaches to the players, to the physios to the chefs, to the kit men to the cleaners, and, of course, to the fans.”
“Thank you so much. Thank you for welcoming me into the Everton family and demonstrating the Everton way.
“I appreciate the journey you’ve taken me on and the experiences you’ve given me.” Thank you for giving a young boy the opportunity to dream.
“I may be leaving the club, but those values, relationships, and memories will live on in my heart always.”
“It’s been an honor to represent the club and wear the famous blue jersey from U11’s to first team.”
“I remember a quote that was strewn about the practice field; some days I’d read it, and other days I’d walk past it.” ‘Once Everton has touched you, nothing will be the same,’ says the quote.
“I can’t wait for the next stage of my journey and will be eternally grateful to everyone at Everton F.C.”
Pennington’s statement drew a flood of well-wishes from Everton fans.
The defender leaves Goodison having made nine appearances for the senior side, scoring that one goal at Anfield throughout that time.
