Former Leeds United captain Liam Cooper has written an emotional tribute to past players, managers and the club's fans after his summer exit was rubber stamped after completing a switch to Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia.
Cooper leaves on the best terms with great memories and the best wishes of everyone, underlining how he is seen by those around the club. It's clear he shares the same emotions, as he spells out in his lengthy goodbye letter below. Speaking directly to his former team-mates and supporters, Cooper wrote the following.
"To the best in the land. After 10 years, 7 as your captain, it's time to say goodbye.
When I arrived at LUFC I had one ambition and that was to leave the shirt in a better position than when I arrived. I do believe I have done that, with the help and support of some incredible people.
Firstly, I have to thank Marcelo and his staff. My relationship with Marcelo is well documented. He made me a better player, a better leader and a better man. I would like to thank all of the managers I have worked with in the past decade but Marcelo's influence on me and the Club in general was beyond anything I can put into words.
I also need to thank all of the coaches, physios and backroom staff past and present, across the first team and academy at Thorp Arch, for everything they have done for me. Many of these people have become more than colleagues over the years. These people help drive and maintain the standards behind the scenes and I will miss them all greatly, you all know who you are.
During my time I have played with so many players, far too many to mention by name, but I do need to give a special mention a fair few. Bill, Klichy, Adam, Patrick, and DJ who I shared amazing moments with and now unbelievable friendships. The 2020 promotion team was probably the best team I have ever been involved with, a team built on pure hard work and humanity. The weight of the shirt is very heavy, but we put side before self and came together to achieve something special with memories that will last forever.
I also have to mention one man in particular who has been by my side through everything, Stu. The bond between us lives beyond football and it was an honour to share some of the best days of my career together with him. He showed me the way all too many times and I'll never forget that.
And to the fans, yes you lunatics and the heartbeat of our great club. Your unwavering support for myself and the boys meant everything. You will never know how much you drive the players on, my only sadness looking back is not getting to lift that title at Elland Road in front of you.
I leave the Club proud of what we achieved together. I wasn't perfect but throughout my time I tried to represent you and the club with dignity and modesty at all times. I've met some truly inspiring individuals in the community over the last 10 years from all walks of life. I appreciate each and every one of you, for making me a better person and proving far and wide that some things are more important than football.
As I move on to the next chapter of my career I will look back and be very proud but also hungry for more. Stay loud and stay proud. I'll see you in the terraces.
Good luck to Daniel, his staff and Ethan and the boys for the rest of the season. When that train starts it's difficult to stop.
On behalf of myself and family - Thank you all for everything, memories we will cherish forever. Marching on Together. Coops."
