By Middlesbrough Football Club

An emotional Sol Bamba paid tribute to Boro and our fans after it was confirmed that he is set to depart the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer.

The defender, 37, made his return to football with Boro this season having being diagnosed with - and subsequently given the all clear from - non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Bamba went on to make 29 senior appearances during the campaign, including memorable wins over Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Having rapidly become a fan favourite on Teesside, Bamba offered heartfelt thanks for all of the support he has received. 

"I can't even put into words," he said. 

"I really want the fans to understand how important the have been for me, they gave me the strength to achieve what I have this season.

"I've played for many clubs but I will never forget this, they're probably the best fans in the country and I wish them all the best."

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