Two Sheffield Wednesday legends have reacted as George Byers shared his goodbye on social media.
George Byers joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2021 and played an important role in their dramatic promotion to the Championship, claiming nine goal contributions in 24 matches.
The midfielder was a regular in the first half of the current season, and it came as a small surprise when he was sent out on loan to Blackpool in January.
Byers’ contract expires this summer and he was one of six players who have been released following the confirmation of the club’s retained list last week.
After three years at Hillsborough, the 27-year-old took to social media to say his goodbyes.
George Byers shares ’emotional goodbye’
He wrote: “When I first signed for Wednesday I never thought I would fall in love with the club as much as I have.
“I’ve had the best 3 years of my career at this wonderful club, so many happy memories that I’ll look back on with great pride.
“I want to thank all the players and staff that I’ve been on this journey with, I’ve managed to share a dressing room with some of the best people and characters in football.
“To be a big part of a promotion winning team and help get the club back where it should be was an unbelievable experience and achievement.
“To all you fans, wow, where do I start? The support I’ve had from you has been truly overwhelming. I hope you saw a player that knew what it meant to put on that blue and white shirt and play for your football club. I class myself as one of you now and I will support the team for the rest of my days.
“I’m gutted it’s come to an end but not all fairytales last forever. I do hope one day I can come back but for now it’s an emotional goodbye!
“I wish everyone involved with Sheffield Wednesday nothing but the best for the future.”
The midfielder receives heartbroken responses
Byers’ message on social media quickly displayed the bond he shared with his former teammates, with a number of Owls players responding to his post.
Liam Palmer wrote an emotional three-word message in response to Byers’ goodbye, writing: “Who’s cutting onions 😢.”
Barry Bannan followed up with: “My mukka you will be missed mate.”
Josh Windass also reacted: Pleasure to play with you George x”.
Dominic Iorfa wrote: “What a guy.”
Former Sheffield Wednesday defender Aden Flint wrote: “Was a pleasure hound.”
George Byers was initially an important player under Danny Rohl, so it came as a surprise when he left for League One.
The Owls’ survival kickstarts a new era under Rohl though, so it makes sense to now send the midfielder packing.
The German coach is ready to undergo an overhaul of his squad and will be hoping to bring in a number of his own players, while he will expect Dejphon Chansiri to open his wallet to allow him to build a much improved squad.
Byers was well-loved at Hillsborough, but he arguably isn’t of the level that Rohl will demand of his team next term.
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