Troy Deeney has spoken of his “tremendous pride” at what he has achieved at Watford after his exit from the club was confirmed.
Troy Deeney said: “It is weird being asked to express my feelings for Watford Football Club and the emotions attached to leaving this wonderful place. I feel sadness and a loss, similarly to like losing a family member. I feel excitement about my new journey and what is to come in the future. Most of all I feel tremendous pride at what I have achieved over the last 12 years and the friendships and connections we have made, the people, staff and fans. Watford has literally changed my life. In my book I have spoken about the changes that have happened, not just with me, but the club and who we are and why we are connected so well. Watford is a small place on planet earth, but during my troubled times it was the epicentre of my world. I couldn’t have wished for better supporters to be holding me up through the bad times. I have truly been honoured to be the captain of this football club and to represent you football fans on the pitch.”
The Hornets have confirmed today that Deeney is leaving the club after more than 11 years with Watford, with the captain departing Vicarage Road after making 419 appearances, scoring 140 goals. The 33-year-old played in Watford’s first two fixtures this season after helping the Hornets back to the Premier League, but he is now leaving the club he joined in 2010 and helped to promotion on two separate occasions. But before leaving, Deeney has sent a heartfelt message to supporters, thanking them for the great memories he has shared with the club during his 11 years in Hertfordshire.