Louie Sibley has shared an emotional message with the Derby County fans after his shock move to Oxford United.
Louie Sibley joined Derby County as a youngster and spent over 14 years with the club.
The 22-year-old made a total of 173 appearances for the Rams, scoring 20 goals and providing 12 assists.
Sibley played a key part in Derby’s 2023/24 promotion-winning season, racking up 38 League One appearances as the club secured a second-place finish.
As a result, is came as quite a shock to fans when Derby confirmed the exit of Sibley on July 2nd.
The Englishman was expected to sign a fresh contract with the club this summer but opted against doing so and has now left Pride Park on a free transfer.
Sibley, who was primarily used by Paul Warne as a wing-back last term, shed some light on his sudden exit, suggesting he wants to be used in his more natural midfield position.
Louie Sibley sends message to Derby fans
Sibley was one of the longest-serving members of Derby’s current squad and his exit was rather shocking.
However, with Warne seemingly eager to keep using him as a left-wing-back and the player wanting more chances in midfield, his exit does make some sense.
Sibley wasted no time finding a new club, joining another newly-promoted Championship team, Oxford United.
Now, after signing for Oxford, Sibley has penned an emotional message to the Derby faithful, as per the Derby Telegraph.
He said: “The love and support you, as fans, have given me, will forever mean so much. I will always remember the first time you sang ‘he’s one of our own’ and how much that meant to me.
“For the many ups and downs we have all been through over the years, to get promotion last season was amazing, and something that will never sink in.
“Thank you to everyone that has helped and supported me along the way, you truly have been unreal.”
Who will replace Louie Sibley at Derby
As they vie to avoid relegation in 2024/25, Derby have been quite active on the transfer front this summer.
Ben Osborn, Kayden Jackson, and Jerry Yates have all signed to strengthen the Rams’ midfield and attack ahead of the new season.
However, the sudden exit of Sibley means Warne may have to look toward the transfer market to replenish his backline.
At present, Callum Elder and Craig Forsyth are the two names in their squad who can fill in on the left of Derby’s defence.
However, Forsyth is now 35 years age and will likely struggle to operate as a wing-back in the Championship on a consistent basis.
Elder had problems of his own last term, with three separate injuries limiting him to just 22 league appearances.
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