LYNDEN Gooch has bid an emotional farewell to Sunderland after his 17-year-association with a club "that will always be close to his heart" came to an end.

The 27-year-old has completed his move to Stoke City, signing a two-year deal with Sunderland's rivals.

Gooch, Sunderland's longest serving player, arrived at Sunderland when he was just 10 years old and went on to write his name into the history books when he scored the winner in the 2021 EFL Trophy final.

He then played a leading role in helping Sunderland win promotion back to the Championship 12 months later.

After his exit was confirmed late on deadline day, Gooch said: "Ever since I came to Wearside as a 10-year-old boy, all I’ve ever wanted to do is play for Sunderland AFC and I have been incredibly lucky to have played for the club for as long as I have.

"I have made friends for life and Sunderland will always be the place that me, my fiancée and my two boys call home. From the Academy of Light to the Stadium of Light, thank you to all the staff who have helped me along the way. To the fans, it’s not been an easy journey together, but we fought back and being a Wembley winner with you is something that I will always hold in my heart. 

"I gave everything for this club and I hope I represented it like a true Mackem should. I will be back on the terraces one day supporting the red and white wizards with you all.”

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Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman added: "Lynden lived the dream that all our academy players aspire to, and he’s had a significantly positive impact on Sunderland AFC for more than a decade.

"I can’t really do justice to his contribution, but I know how much it meant to him to be part of a successful team at this football club, with his 17-year association culminating in our return to the second tier.

"This move is one that we felt was right for both parties and everyone at the club wishes Lynden the very best of luck in the next chapter of his career.”