Alex Pritchard has shared an emotional message with Sunderland fans following his exit.
Alex Pritchard became a fan favourite at Sunderland since joining from Huddersfield Town in 2021.
The midfielder has played a key role in the Black Cats’ return to the Championship, but has spent much of the past year struggling to retain a regular place in the starting line-up.
While he had finally earned his place back in the team under Michael Beale, he made it clear that he wanted to leave when he refused to play in the win over Stoke City at the weekend.
Sunderland had offered Pritchard a one-year extension, but he wanted a longer deal and instead reunited with Tony Mowbray at Birmingham City on a two-and-a-half year contract.
Supporters were left very disappointed that the 30-year-old had left, while many were frustrated by the manner in which he did so.
Hours after his switch to St Andrews was confirmed, Pritchard took to social media to explain his decision and to thank the Sunderland fans.
He wrote: “Dear Sunderland Fans,Staff, and Team mates.
“I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to the amazing fans, dedicated staff, and everyone associated with the club. Your unwavering support and passion have meant the world to me, and I am truly grateful for the unforgettable memories we’ve shared.
“I am immensely proud of the part I played in our promotion and the exhilarating experiences of competing in the Championship. These moments will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I will cherish them for the rest of my career.
“At this point of my career, stability and security are paramount, so I had to explore other avenues in the best interest for my career.
“Once again, I want to express my deepest thanks to each and every one of you for your incredible support and the unforgettable journey we’ve shared. I will always look back on my time at Sunderland with fondness and pride. I wish you nothing but success for the future.
“With warm regards,
“Pritch.”
Was Alex Pritchard right to demand a move away?
Given the problems Sunderland have endured over the years, there are very few players that really break your heart when they leave – other than the long list of incredible loanees we have had, anyway.
Alex Pritchard was a real favourite of mine and of many Sunderland fans, even if he wasn’t the most talented player in the world.
The midfielder had completely transformed performances with some of his displays this season and last, and he definitely deserved to feel a lot more appreciated by a club that didn’t really like him because he wasn’t young and ‘cool’.
It is completely understandable why Pritchard wanted to leave, but that still doesn’t really excuse him refusing to play at the weekend.
He has earned his move to Birmingham five days after that Stoke win, so was it really that difficult to just play one more game?
It will leave a bitter taste in Sunderland fans’ mouths, but we have to move on and wish him good luck.