Former long-serving Cape Town City skipper Thamsanqa Mkhize has penned a lengthy and emotional farewell message to the Western Cape club.
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The story
After Cape Town City's relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship was confirmed last week, the club’s long-serving captain has taken to Instagram to announce his departure.
The now former Citizens right-back posted a collection of memories from his eight years in the Mother City, including snaps of current and former CT City stars that he shared a changeroom with.
Mkhize made over 250 appearances for the Capetonians, contributing further with a handy nine goals and 15 assists, receiving just one red card throughout his spell in the Western Cape.
"Today I am feeling truly grateful for the opportunity, the platform and the chance I was given for the past 8 years with this club. I lived and enjoyed what I have always dreamed of as a child," shared Mkhize on IG, adding:
"I would like to thank the team and all the sponsors for opening the door for me. We have created memorable moments together that I will cherish for the rest of my life."
The hard-nosed, defensive right-back also reserved special praise for his coaches at City, and the club's employees.
"As I reflect, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all the coaches and their technical teams that I have worked with throughout these years, for the opportunity to play and improve my game.
"The back room and office staff, you guys always made sure we were always taken care of for training as well as before and including game days, thank you."
Having astutely led the side over seven seasons, Mkhize took time to reflect on how the responsibility of captaining the club had shaped him both on and off the pitch.
Mkhize also showed love to City's passionate supporters and his former teammates, showing appreciation for the bonds he’s formed with the players.
"Above all, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the club for 7 consecutive seasons. This has helped me develop as a person both on and off the field.
"To the players, thank you guys for everything, for the brotherhood and friendships that I have built over the years. Our highs outweigh our lows, and during all the lows, we always got through them together as a team. I wish you all prosperity and successful journeys
"To our faithful citizens, I want to thank you for all the support, encouragement and love you have shown towards me. You have touched my soul and shown me what loyalty looks like. Most of our journey is filled with beautiful memories. Thank you for always backing the club, you guys will always be part of my life.
"Thank you for all the calls, chats, laughs and pictures. As sad as I am leaving you guys like this, I want to emphasise the importance of the love that you have shown me. I appreciate you all, Citizens," shared the 36-year-old.
Take a look at his full message and goodbye post on Instagram, which concludes with a lovely message to his family.
Take a look:
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