Departing CKR says thanks to ‘uplifting’ Rams fans
COLIN Kazim-Richards has confirmed his departure from Derby County and paid tribute to fans, players and staff in an emotional farewell to the club.
The striker was one of a number of players out of contract at Derby this summer but he has not been offered a new deal and now becomes a free agent.
Kazim-Richards joined the club in October 2020 and scored 11 League goals in 61 appearances for the club during which time he became a popular figure among the fans.
The former Sheffield United striker, who scored four times last season, used Twitter to say goodbye, adding that he will never forget his time with the Rams.
“To the supporters, it’s been a rollercoaster through no fault of your own,” he said. “I am very relieved and happy that you all still have your club to support.
“It’s the very least you deserve. You have been uplifting.
“As you all know there have been a few goodbyes for me over the years, yet only one or two departures have had the impact on me that leaving you all and some of the truly fantastic people I have worked with at this club will have on me.
“I wanted to send a heartfelt thank you to every supporter who stood for me. Despite my departure, I believed I achieved more than anyone (except myself ) believed I could during my time with you.
“None of it would have been possible without the help of some brilliantly wonderful people who I cannot leave without mentioning.
“The pitch and the stadium are where everything is celebrated but the real work is done by the many wonderful people behind the scenes and back at the training centre.
“People who don’t often get a mention. People like Simon (maintenance) who helped with everything from the club to my home. Dr Amit Pannu and Dr Sandeep who both went over and beyond and looked after my family.
“Luke, Dys, Rhys, Chris and Nathan in the medical department, you can all rest easy. No more pressure for pre-training massages. You got me going time and again. Chris and Rhys with the last injury a special shout-out.
“In the kitchen and the canteen, Simon, Phil, Evie, Philomena and Sue, absolute stars. Vicky, Tina and Amy (laundry) our convos will last forever. Davo and Jon (kitmen) absolute grafters. Thomo and the rest of the groundsmen, Georgina, Clare and Janette, Tony Britton (safeguarding), Jamie Smith youthteam recruitment, the young people
STRIKER BECOMES FREE AGENT AS DEAL RUNS OUT
Despite my departure, I believed I achieved more than anyone (except myself) believed I could during my time with you. Colin Kazim-Richards
are all in great hands.
“All the media department, both Angelas, thank you. Adam Storer, the club would be lost without you. Apologies to anybody I’ve missed. You were all superb and all special people.
“Some people in this game have short memories. Not me, I remember all! Player-led accountability leads to championship standards is what means so much. WE created that in the dressing room between us players that will now be in the DNA of the club.
“I am proud to say I am a part of that. Good luck this season. It will be tough but do we expect anything less? I will never forget the brilliant people and fans of Derby County football club. To the guys in the locker room, we know it was real. Thank you all.”