Fernando Amorebieta has written a goodbye message to Fulham fans after joining Sporting Gijon on a permanent basis.

The defender is heading to Spain after signing to Sporting de Gijón from Fulham for a small fee.

With spells on loan to Middlesbrough over past two seasons, the defender’s future at Craven Cottage was in doubt for some time after failing to become a first-team regular.

The Venezuelan international, who made 50 appearances for the Whites, will now join up with the La Liga side for their summer pre-season in Portugal.

Sporting de Gijón head coach Abelardo faced competition from Alavés for the 31-year-old, who joined Fulham from Athletic Bilbao in 2013 after 10 seasons there.

The Whites were happy to let Amorebieta leave on a permanent basis now, rather than risk letting him run down his contact and leave on a free transfer next year.

And he has written the below letter to convey his thanks to the club's fans.

“To all Fulham Family

“I've been part of Fulham Family during three seasons and I'll never forget how happy I've been here: playing in Craven Cottage, sharing this time with the lads and feeling the support of the fans.

“There weren't easy years for the club but I can only feel grateful to all of you: employees, coaches, lads and specially fans; you've shown us lot of reasons for not givign up and keep fighting.

“Thanks to Fulham I've had the opportunity of being a Premier League player and the first Venezuelan player scoring in an official match.

“These years were a great experience that made me grow personally and professionally.

“This will never change; I'll always be a Fulham fan, wishing you all the best for the future.

“Many, many thanks,

“Fernando Amorebieta”