Alim Ozturk insists it was an 'honour' to play for Sunderland over the last two seasons.
The 27-year-old defender, alongside Jack Baldwin, Joel Lynch, Ethan Robson and Duncan Watmore, was released from Sunderland yesterday at the end of his contract.
The former Turkey under-21 international defender joined the Black Cats on a free transfer in the summer of 2018 from Boluspor and found himself in and out of the team during his two seasons at the club.
The former Hearts star made 45 appearances for Sunderland, including the full 90 minutes of last season's League One play-off final defeat to Charlton, but is now free to talk to other clubs following the club's confirmation on his future yesterday.
Despite his departure, and the disappointment of not winning promotion during his time at the club, Ozturk took to social media last night to wish 'beautiful' Sunderland all the best in the future.
"I want to say thanks to everyone for their support the last 2 years and wish this beautiful club @sunderlandafcofficial all the best in the future," Ozturk told his Instagram followers.
"It's time for a new chapter. It was a pleasure and honour for me, thanks again."
