Jordan Stewart confirms Linfield departure after 'bitter pill to swallow'

Jordan Stewart has said an emotional goodbye to Linfield as he confirmed his departure from his boyhood club after seven years.

Posting on social media Stewart said it was a "bitter pill to swallow" as he made his final appearance for the Blues in Saturday's Irish Cup final defeat to Cliftonville. The 29-year-old thanked the fans for the support they have shown him, particularly in the last couple of years as the midfielder suffered "some horrendous injuries".

"As another season draws to a close so does my time with Linfield, a club that I’ve followed from a young boy and being from the local area surrounding Windsor it meant so much to me to represent the biggest club in the country," Stewart posted on Facebook.

Read next: Crusaders vs Coleraine TV and live stream info for Tuesday's European play-off

"Will be forever thankful for my time at the club and the many trophies won and special memories made. A special thanks to the players, staff and mostly definitely the fans who have persevered with me through some horrendous injuries which have probably stopped me making a lot more appearances than I should have done, you’ve always showed me a lot of support for which I’ll be forever thankful.

"A bitter pill to swallow yesterday and a disappointing end but I will always cherish the special friendships made me so many amazing people who have been with me on my journey friendships and bonds that will last forever. Audaces Fortuna Juvat."

Stewart has been linked with a return to Glenavon, where he spent the second half of the 2022/23 season on loan, but Crusaders are also reported to be monitoring the situation.

Stewart is the first of several players set to leave Windsor Park with Michael Newberry being linked with a move to Irish Cup winners Cliftonville and long-serving defender Matthew Clarke rumoured to be heading to Scotland once his current deal expires with the Blues.

Join Belfast Live’s new Irish League WhatsApp group. Click this link to receive the latest Irish League headlines and breaking news direct to your phone. We also treat our members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our group, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice