Niclas Eliasson is one of a rare breed of Bristol City player in that he was bestowed with not one, but two different songs from Section 82 for matchdays at Ashton Gate.
Eliasson departed for Ligue 1 club Nimes on Friday with the Robins receiving around £2.25m for the Swedish winger who was in the last year of his contract and had shown little inclination to sign a new one.
Traditionally that would be met with scorn from supporters of any club but when Eliasson bid farewell to City fans on social media on Sunday he was met with universal gratitude and goodwill for the future, further evidence of how popular he was and will remain at Ashton Gate.
His performances in the 2019/20 season, when he delivered 12 Championship assists and was one of only a handful of individuals capable of bringing genuine entertainment in a challenging campaign, certainly helped.
Eliasson’s crossing was a consistent thing of beauty – almost an art form – while his stepovers and dribbling ability helped lift a City team that was too often focused on organisation.
But there's also his personality and general manner around the club, with Eliasson a popular figure and warm and polite character.
The Swede leaves after three seasons in which he displayed continual progression to become one of the most effective wingers in the Championship and the only regret, from the Robins end, will be that his peak will likely be realised elsewhere.
But Eliasson undoubtedly left a mark on City and, equally, the club and its supporters have left a positive impact on the 24-year-old’s life and career.
On Twitter, Eliasson wrote: "I want to thank Bristol City for three amazing years! Met a lot of friends for life and developed a lot on and off the pitch.
“I wish everyone from staff to players all the best for the season and the future! Also special thanks to the fans that always made me feel very special.”
