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Solly says an emotional Albion farewell and looks forward to new challenge

The popular wideman from Hailsham is moving on as his current contract expires this summer.

He was given half an hour off the bench by head coach Fabian Hurzeler against Manchester United in his 300th and last game for the Seagulls.

He will be remembered as the man whose goal secured promotion to the Premier League in a win over Wigan.

And for the part he played in the top flight, highlights including a stunning two-goal display against Liverpool.

March has penned a farewell to fans of the club he joined from non-league Lewes.

And he has also made it clear he is ready for a new challenge.

He wrote: “It’s hard to find the words to say goodbye to a club that’s been my home for so long. From arriving from Lewes as a young lad with big dreams to walking out at the Amex in the Premier League and in Europe, it’s been everything I could have hoped for and more.

“I grew up at this club and learned what it means to represent Brighton and Hove Albion. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity. As the club grew, I was lucky enough to grow with it.

“Under Chris Hughton, we built something special. That promotion season will always stay with me and to take this club into the Premier League meant everything.

“What followed went beyond anything I imagined. Establishing ourselves in the Premier League and then, under Roberto De Zerbi, reaching Europe. Those nights were incredibly special and I’m proud to have been part of them.

“It hasn’t always been straightforward. Coming back from two ACL injuries was the toughest challenge I’ve faced, but with the support of the club, my teammates and you, the fans, I kept going. Pulling the shirt on again meant everything to me.

“Thank you Fabian. I would have loved to have played more games these past two seasons. I’ve no doubt he’ll take the club forward next season.

“Thank you to all my team-mates over the years, all the staff at the club from Tony Bloom down, but especially the medical and sports science staff who helped me through the hardest moments of my career.

“I also want to thank the most important people in my life - my wife Amelia, my three wonderful girls and my family - for their constant support through every high and low. I couldn’t have done any of this without them.

“Leaving was never going to be easy. This is my club and always will be, but I’m ready for a new challenge and excited. I will keep proving people wrong and get back to my best. I’m fit and ready for what’s next.

“Most of all, thank you to you, the fans. Your support has meant more than I can put into words and it’s something I’ll carry with me wherever I go.

“It’s been an honour to wear this shirt and to be part of this club’s history. I’ll always be watching, always supporting and always grateful. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

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