Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has sent a message to Red Devils supporters after signing for newly-promoted Queens Park Rangers.
The ex-England international has put pen to paper at Loftus Road and, although the length of his contract is yet to be announced, it is widely-expected to be a 12-month arrangement with an option to extend his stay.
Ferdinand, who arrived at Old Trafford in 2002 from bitter rivals Leeds United, enjoyed 12 trophy-laden years at the club, and tasted Champions League success in 2008 with victory over Chelsea on penalties.
He took time out to thank his old supporters on social media site Twitter and said: “It has been a long day but finally I’m a @QPRFC player. A new chapter begins.
“Can’t wait to meet the lads & start the season.
“Although its a new beginning for me i will always have a special place in my heart for @ManUtd & the fans #fact.”
For Ferdinand, his new start is a reunion with manager Harry Redknapp, under whom he worked at West Ham United as a teenager at the start of his career.
His breakthrough in the Hammers side put him on the radar and earned him a place in the England set-up, where he stayed for the best years of his decorated career.