SHANE Long has posted a message of thanks to everyone at Saints, following his departure from the club after eight years.

The 35-year-old Irishman has not had his contract renewed following its expiry this summer, and will pursue a new challenge.

It comes after 243 appearances for the St Mary’s side, and a broken Premier League record for the fastest goal ever scored.

Long’s contributions also saw the final nail in the coffin for Liverpool during an historic League Cup semi-final, in which the forward made it 2-0 on aggregate in added time.

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On social media site Instagram, Long’s wife – Kayleah – posted a message of thanks from the forward, to everyone at Saints.

She wrote: “As you are aware, Shane isn’t on social media but he would like to thank all the fans for their support, the club and the staff for making all of the above happen and all the players he has had the privilege to play alongside!

“On that note, We have made friends for life at this club and will be forever grateful. Best of luck for the future, Saints.”

Kayleah added: “So proud of what Shane has achieved at the eight years he has spent at Southampton

“Over 200 appearances, some memorable goals and one of them being the fastest goal in Premier league history!”

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