New Chelsea assistant coach Bruno Saltor has written a farewell to Brighton and their fans.

The former defender joined the south coast club in 2012 and played a major role in their 2017 promotion to the Premier League, forming a close bond with fans across almost a decade of service.

In total, the Spaniard made 235 for Brighton and captained the club for years before his retirement in 2019. After calling time on his playing career, the former Valencia full-back joined the coaching staff.

Taking to social media, Bruno wrote: “I'm heartbroken, probably like some of you. I have the same feeling as when I left home at 14; sure about my decision, but broken inside.

“What players, staff at the Amex, staff at the training ground, fans and the community have given me is unforgettable. Thank you.

“What these ten years have shown me is that football is more than ninety minutes. Of all the unimportant things, football is the most important.

“I've given my heart and soul for this club and I would like to think that I've helped to leave Brighton & Hove Albion in a better place than when I arrived.

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are you will always be in my heart. Your amigo, Bruno."