I leave Reds with countless memories: Garrett
STEPHEN Garrett has announced he is leaving Cliftonville after 10 years at the club.
The versatile 33-year-old won back-to-back titles with the Reds in 2013 and 2014 and was part of the Solitude squad that lifted four League Cups in a row and two County Antrim Shields, scoring a host of important goals in the process.
While Garrett’s appearances for Cliftonville in recent times were fleeting, there will be several Irish League clubs interested in snapping him up.
The Dundonald man was a popular figure amongst the supporters and team-mates at the club and departed with a typically classy message on his Twitter account a decade after playing his first game in a Europa League victory over HNK Cibalia.
“All good things must come to an end,” said Garrett, who scored 65 goals in 358 matches for the north Belfast outfit.
“Thank you to each and every of you for your amazing support over the last decade.
“It only seems like yesterday I made my debut against Cibalia. I guess time flies when you’re having fun!
“I’ll be forever proud to have spent over 10 years and played over 350 games at such a fantastic club. I’ve made some incredible memories and brilliant friendships that will last a lifetime. For that I’ll be forever grateful.”
Garrett’s departure came one day after the Reds were knocked out of the Irish Cup on penalties in the semi-finals by Glentoran following a 1-1 draw after extra-time.
The defeat was a big blow to Cliftonville, who were hoping for £250,000 from Europa League qualification as well as Cup glory.