Leighton Clarkson has shared an emotional farewell message to Liverpool after completing a permanent transfer to Aberdeen.
The 21-year-old midfielder spent 15 years within the Reds' ranks and made a total of three first-team appearances for Jurgen Klopp's side, one of which arrived in a Champions League group stage game versus FC Midtjylland.
Loaned out to Blackburn Rovers for the 2021/22 season, Clarkson failed to make the same impression at the Championship club as Harvey Elliott managed and earned only a handful of outings before his season-long stay was cut short in January 2022.
Spending last campaign with Aberdeen proved to be an inspired decision, however, as the youngster quickly emerged as a key player for the Dons and helped the Scottish Premiership side secure a third-placed finish courtesy of five goals and eights assists.
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Such was the impact made by the Blackburn-born star, Aberdeen yesterday moved to strike an undisclosed deal for his services and are believed to have fended off interest from a host of English clubs to bring him back to Pittodrie. Though undoubtedly thrilled to be starting a new chapter in his career, Clarkson has thanked the Reds for the major role played in his development.
"15 years at this historic club has come to an end. I would like to thank everybody who helped me from the age of 6 up until now for making me the player and person I am today," he wrote on Instagram.
"Liverpool gave me the platform to start my football journey, making friendships for life and memories that will stay with me forever. Making my debut in the Carabao Cup , FA Cup and the Champions League for Liverpool was stuff you dream of. I wish everybody the best of luck in the future and You’ll Never Walk Alone."
Various individuals who have spent time playing alongside Clarkson at Liverpool's Academy, including Paul Glatzel, Owen Beck, Tyler Morton and Rhys Williams, have since commented on this social media post to wish him well in his next challenge.
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