Departing defender Wilfred Bouma has thanked the Aston Villa fans for their support following his five years in the Midlands.
The Netherlands international has been handed a free transfer following two frustrating years on the sidelines.
The 31-year-old left-back broke his ankle in July 2008 and failed to make a first-team comeback.
Bouma is now hoping to resume his career, with a possible return to the Dutch Eredivisie on the cards.
"The fans will always hold a special place in my heart. They were one of the guiding lights in me getting fit again – the encouragement they gave me was incredible," he told the club's official website.
"It didn't matter how long I was out injured, they were always there for me, cheering for me, asking how I was. I am so grateful for that.
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"I was so happy to become a fans favourite – that was genuinely so special. To be a hero gave me such a buzz – chanting my name and singing songs about me was tremendous and I am so honoured.
"I will definitely be looking out for Villa and checking the scores and there's no doubt I will return to the club to watch some games."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email