AFC Bournemouth’s recent record signing, Tokelo Rantie, says that it has been sad for him to leave Malmo and thanked the club for all of their support.
It was recently confirmed that the 22-year-old Bafana Bafana striker had been granted his work permit following his transfer from the Swedish club, and on Sunday night he played his final 30 minutes for them against Osters.
Story: Rantie Due At Bournemouth Next Week
Following the game, Rantie was given a standing ovation from the crowd, many of which stayed behind to wish him farewell, even handing him a South African flag.
Speaking in an interview with the club’s website, a clearly emotional Rantie spoke of his feelings to the Malmo fans. He said, “The emotions are very deep, taking into consideration that they’ve been there for me from the start. It’s sad for me to leave them like that, I just want to thank them for each and every thing that they did for me and hopefully I’ll see them again in the near future.
“I think I had my ups and downs but most importantly I felt the love of you guys associated with Malmo and that made it easier for me to adjust. I believe the Malmo people are fantastic, everyone associated with the club, and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for everything, I’m very grateful.”
Rantie is currently in camp with the South African national team after he and Siyanda Xulu arrived this morning and will then join up with his new side, Bournemouth, after this weekend’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Botswana in Durban.
By Joe Crann
Follow Joe on Twitter: @YesWeCrann
