Jack Clarke and Tommy Watson respond as Dan Neil posts emotional Instagram message to Sunderland fans | OneFootball

Dan Neil’s emotional Instagram farewell drew public replies from former Sunderland team-mates Jack Clarke and Tommy Watson on Tuesday night. The midfielder said in a post that he felt lucky to have lived his boyhood dream at his hometown club.

In a 202-word message, Neil charted his path from joining the academy at six to captaining Sunderland back to the Premier League. He thanked coaches and staff for shaping him as a player and person.

Clarke, now at Ipswich Town and set to link up with Neil following his loan move, responded with a line of red heart emojis. Watson called Neil a legend and wished him well for the next chapter, adding a red heart.

Neil’s post was accompanied by images from across his career, including the moment he lifted silverware at Wembley. He also thanked team-mates and fans for sticking by him through ups and downs, signing off with red and white heart emojis.

The farewell marks the close of a journey that began in the academy and reached 201 senior appearances, multiple promotions and the honour of captaining his hometown club at Wembley. Neil has joined Ipswich on loan until his contract expires this summer, after which he will assess his future.

Source: Sunderland Echo