Former Leeds United star Georginio Rutter has already left Danny Murphy with egg on his face

-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


Georginio Rutter has today scored his first goal since swapping Leeds United for Brighton and Hove Albion. The mercurial forward, who opted to leave Elland Road last month after the Seagulls triggered his £40m release clause, headed in the opener to put the Premier League side in front at Chelsea.

Rutter said it was hard to say goodbye to United 18 months after arriving from Hoffenheim in a club-record deal. He bid a fond farewell to the Whites on social media. He wrote on his Instagram account: “Hi Leeds family. It’s hard for me to say goodbye, but the time has come for me to move on. When I joined Leeds, I knew I was becoming part of something special, but I didn’t realise how much this club would mean to me.

Leeds United has been more than just a team for me, it’s been like a family that has supported and helped me grow. From day one, you, the fans, have always been there, cheering me on and showing me what it means to play for Leeds.

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“You made me feel at home, and I will always remember that. My time here was full of hard work, great moments, and strong friendships.

I’m leaving as a better player and a better person and I’m really thankful for that. Even though I’m heading in a new direction, Leeds United will always be a part of who I am. I wish you all the best for the future and the challenges ahead. Thank you for everything, Leeds. I’ll never forget you. MOT.”

Rutter's maiden Brighton goal is the perfect response to his critics. Pundit Danny Murphy recently spoke his surprise over the Seagulls paying such a hefty fee for the Frenchman.

"They (Brighton) have spent a hell of a lot this summer and the expectations are going to be higher, but I was surprised that they spent what they did on Rutter from Leeds," said Murphy. "I have seen quite a lot of him and he is talented, but he is unpredictable and inconsistent.”