Luke O'Nien's heartfelt tribute as Dennis Cirkin confirms Sunderland exit | OneFootball

Luke O’Nien has paid a heartfelt tribute to Dennis Cirkin after the left-back confirmed he will leave Sunderland when his contract expires this summer.

The player said in a post that the last five years were the most enjoyable of his career, praising Cirkin’s influence through both successes and seasons when the squad fell short.

He reflected on their on-field partnership, with Cirkin often on his left going into battle and there to cover when mistakes were made. The defender was alongside him in the incredible moments and, more importantly, when the team needed someone to step up.

O’Nien credited Cirkin as a major architect of progress that has led the club into Europe. He also praised the full-back for helping him grow as a man, player and team-mate, and called him family while wishing him well.

Alongside Trai Hume, Patrick Roberts, Dan Neil and Anthony Patterson, the pair were part of a select group to have experienced two promotions on Wearside in recent years.

Source: Sunderland Echo