Thu 25th Jan 2007

CHAD Gibson said farewell to the club yesterday when he fronted local media after being informed that his contract would not be renewed for the 2007/08 season.

In true dignified manner, the first ever skipper of Queensland Roar said held bore no grudges towards the club and wished nothing but success for the future.

“I would like to thank Queensland Roar, Lawrence (Oudendyk) and the board for the opportunity to play here, Gibson said.

“Being the first ever player to captain this club has meant the world to me and the club will always hold a dear place in my heart. I would also like to thank Frank Farina; he gave me my first opportunity ten years ago and you don’t forget those things.

“I wish my team-mates all the best and thank them for an amazing two years. They’re a great bunch of lads and I really hope the state of Queensland believes in them because they’ll do big things.

“To the supporters – you’ve been brilliant for the past two seasons; 32 000 is unbelievable and I’ve always said that I think they’re the number one fans in the land as far as I’m concerned.

“Today for me is a positive day and I’m already looking forward to next season; I’ve spoken to three clubs and the ball is rolling. Obviously it’s a disappointing day in that I’m leaving the Roar, but I’m moving forward injury-free, fitter than I’ve ever been and with a renewed enthusiasm for the game. I’m hoping to take that to my new club next season and I can’t wait for the opportunity.

“I’ll miss everyone at the club – the admin staff, the ladies upstairs who make us coffee at 7.30 in the morning, the coaching staff and everyone involved. It’s a great organisation and I’d really like to thank everyone here.

“The reality is that we didn’t make the finals two years in a row and changes had to be made. This club needs to play finals football and I’m part of those changes. That’s football and that’s the reality of elite sport; you move forward and you move on.

“Finally, I’d just like to wish everyone connected with the club every success in the future.”