Korean pens farewell message after signing permanent deal away from club

Lee Chung-Yong has issued the following open letter to the Bolton Wanderers fans following confirmation of his transfer to Crystal Palace.

After five-and-a-half years the time has come for me to leave Bolton Wanderers. Whilst I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead, I’m very sad to be leaving this great club behind.





I will take nothing but good memories away from my time at Bolton. I’ve enjoyed every moment and I will remember Bolton and the fans for the rest of my life.





I’ve worked under four managers and each one of them were very kind to me. I felt like they all believed in my ability and for that I’m very grateful.





I have also met some wonderful teammates and will take away some excellent memories, both on and off the training ground. We always worked very hard in training and because of the people training alongside me I was able to really push myself.





I’d also like to thank the great backroom staff at Bolton. They have always been very kind to me and my family. When I first moved over here it was a very big moment for me and my family and they helped us a lot.





I must also thank the chairman. Every player is important to him and he made me feel very special. He has been very kind to me and has helped me a lot.





I’ll never forget 15 August 2009, when I came on to the pitch for my debut – the fans and noise they made was incredible. They didn’t know much about me because I had come from a foreign country, but I felt like they were looking forward to seeing me play. I had a good feeling right away.





I always gave my best for Bolton in every game, because when I was on the pitch and you feel the fans’ passion it really does drive you on.





After that the fans have always supported and believed in me. So, I have to say a big thank you to the fans of Bolton Wanderers. I am now also a Bolton Wanderers fan and will be for the rest of my life. I will always be looking out for every result.





I also looking forward to seeing Bolton back in the Premier League in the near future. I think we have a very good manager in Neil Lennon and the set-up is good. I just want to say to the fans to keep supporting and cheering the team on in every game. I’ll be doing the same wherever I am.





Thank you for the memories Bolton.





Lee Chung-Yong.



