Troy Deeney is leaving Watford FC, it has been confirmed.
The 33-year-old would have been out of contract next summer but the Hornets have agreed to let him go today (Monday).
It brings his 11 year spell at Vicarage Road to an end amid interest from other clubs including Birmingham City.
Reports suggest he has agreed a two-year deal with the blues - boss Lee Bowyer previously spoke of his admiration for the player as he admitted he is hoping to bring two players to the club before Tuesday’s deadline.
In an emotional farewell message to Watford fans, Deeney said that he felt "tremendous pride" at what he has achieved at the club.
Among achievements include his famous stoppage-time goal against Leicester in 2013 that sent the Hornets to the Championship play-off final.
“𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿.” 💛
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) August 30, 2021
In an emotional and heartfelt message, Troy Deeney addresses supporters as his 11-year spell at Vicarage Road comes to an end... pic.twitter.com/SQKZSikJGx
The striker, who joined Watford from Walsall in 2010, said: "It's weird being asked to express my feelings for Watford Football Club and the emotions attached to leaving this wonderful place.
"I feel sadness and a loss, similarly to like losing a family member. I feel excitement about my new journey and what's to come in the future.
Read more - Duxbury pays tribute to Deeney as he leaves Watford after 11 years
"Most of all I feel tremendous pride for what I've achieved and the friendships and connections I've made.
"Watford literally has changed my life."
Since joining Watford Deeney has scored 140 goals for the club in 419 apperances.
He added: "Watford is a small part of planet earth but for some of the most troubled years of my life it was the centre of my world and I couldn't have wished for better supporters holding me up through the bad times.
"I have been truly honoured to be the captain of this club and represent you fans on the pitch.
"While there is always some frustrations and regrets along this long journey, when it all comes to an end, all that will happen is positive memories from goals to games to just being able to walk out in front of you guys."
What is your favourite memory of Troy Deeney's 11 years at Watford?
Troy Deeney scored 140 goals during 419 appearances at Vicarage Road. Is your favourite memory one of those goals? Or perhaps it is something more personal? Tell us about it and we will publish as many as possible over the coming days.
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