In a move that also saw former team Rotherham United receive a sell-on fee, MATT CROOKS wrote a farewell letter to Middlesbrough supporters after joining MLS team Real Salt Lake.
Crooks, 30, signed a three-year contract with the US team for an undisclosed sum after his previous agreement at the Riverside ended in June 2025.
The summer of 2021 saw the Leeds-born player, who began his career at Huddersfield Town, join Boro from Rotherham United. In 115 games, he scored 23 goals for the team.
The Millers will profit from the midfielder’s move to the States because they included a sell-on clause in the agreement in case of a future move.
Known as “Tree” at the club, Crooks was a well-liked and important member during his tenure on Teesside and wrote a farewell letter to fans.
It said as much as it did when I first joined: “It’s Middlesbrough, and I haven’t been disappointed, what a club.”
I said this place was home, and it still is, just six months ago.
“But life is short and we only get one go at it, and to have the chance to experience football and life in another country with my family was one I was keen to take up
“From the very first game, playing as a tricky right-winger at Fulham away, right up to Chelsea in a domestic semi-final, I gave it my all.
“Under each manager came different challenges and plenty of positions, yet all provided me with memories which I am sure I’ll be able to look back on fondly.
“Reading at home, United away, Spurs at home, Chelsea at home. Fantastic.
“I’m sure the guys and staff will give it their all until the season ends. Good luck to everyone involved with the club for the remainder of this campaign.”
“Apart from the football, I would like to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for helping the Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust from the moment I arrived.
Together, we have raised amazing sums of money, and I sincerely hope you will continue to follow our efforts.
“Hair looks fine, there’s no doubt about it. Belters, constantly? Uncertain.
“Up the burrow, (sic) Tree.”
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