BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION'S chairman has said that Shane Duffy's contribution to the club's recent history will not be forgotten after the Ireland defender secured a permanent move to fellow Premier League side Fulham on Deadline Day.
Duffy has been on loan at Craven Cottage this season but has had found game time under Marco Silva hard to come by.
His only one start all season has come in the Carabao Cup.
The Derry native has only played five times for the London Club since joining on loan from Brighton this summer but has now made the move until the end of the summer.
Duffy played 158 times for Brighton and scored 8 goals across two spells at the club.
Tony Bloom, the Brighton owner paid tribute to his former player via the the club's website, “Shane has played such an important role during his time at the club.
Chairman Tony Bloom has paid tribute to Shane Duffy after the defender joined Fulham on a permanent basis. 🙏💬
🤝 @FirstTouchGames // #BHAFC 🔵⚪️— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) February 1, 2023
"He was a key character in our promotion to the Premier League in his first season here. He was equally key in helping to establish the club in the Premier League and has always been extremely popular in the dressing room and with Albion fans."
“I’d like to thank him for everything and to wish him and his family all the best for the future from everyone associated with the club.
"His contribution to our recent history won’t be forgotten and Shane will always be assured a warm welcome at the Amex.”
Duffy responded to Brighton's tweet and added, "What a journey! The most amazing 6 and half years at such a special club which will always have a big place in my heart. Thanks for the memories seagulls."
The Ireland defender has also played for Celtic, Everton, Blackburn and the likes of Burnley in his career.
Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny will now hope that Duffy can get more game time ahead of Ireland's game against France on March 27.
See More: Brighton And Hove Albion, Football, Fulham, Shane Duffy
