Ellis Taylor has shared a ‘proud’ message after he made his final appearance for Sunderland.
Ellis Taylor joined Sunderland at just nine years old and has since moved up the ranks.
The versatile full-back has become a regular for the U21s over the last couple of seasons, while he has also claimed the captain’s armband.
Taylor has made 17 appearances for the youth side this term – netting nine goals and providing two assists.
The 21-year-old has made a huge impact during their PL2 play-off run, netting an equaliser against West Ham before bagging a hat-trick against Reading to send them through to the final.
It had been confirmed that Taylor would leave the club on a free transfer just days before, with the final against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend being his final match for the Black Cats.
The youngster took to social media following the defeat to Spurs, explaining how ‘proud and honoured’ he felt to have played on Wearside.
Ellis Taylor is ‘ready’ for the ‘next challenge’
Taylor wrote: “Well yesterday was my last game in a Sunderland shirt after 12 years at the club. Unfortunate with the way the game went but so proud and honoured to have been apart and captained this team.
“I would just like to thank everyone at the club for the help, support and hard work they have shown to me over my time at the club. Had some very difficult moments during my time on and off the pitch and I will forever be grateful of the way the club helped me get through them moments. The club has been a massive part to making me the player and person I am today.
“I wouldn’t have wanted to grow at any other place! I wish nothing but good things for this club. It’s been an absolute pleasure to wear the Red & White. I’m ready for the next challenge.
“Thank you, @sunderlandafcofficial.”
Taylor has come under so much praise at Sunderland in recent weeks, with Phil Smith hailing him as a ‘talented young lad’, while coach Graeme Murty called him one ‘hell of a player’.
The 21-year-old was dealt an unlucky hand at Sunderland
The defender has really impressed for Sunderland this season and has established himself as a regular captain, but it is the senior team’s strength in depth that has forced their hand.
The 21-year-old is really unlucky in that he would come up against Niall Huggins, Aji Alese, Dennis Cirkin and Leo Hjelde in the left-back position, while even fellow U21 star Tom Watson would be ahead of him if he was to play further up the field.
Taylor was yet to force his way into the senior set-up and, as he approaches his 22nd birthday next season, it seems unlikely that he was ever really going to get a chance.
There is no doubt that he will earn himself a solid move though, especially after his display in the play-offs.