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Jelavic bids Blues a fond farewell

Striker thanks Evertonians for their support

Nikica Jelavic has issued a public thank you to Everton's fans for their unwavering support as he makes the switch this week from Goodison Park to Hull City's KC Stadium in a £7.5m move.

The Croatian said he was humbled by the backing he received from Blues fans as he struggled to regain the explosive form with which he announced his arrival to the Premier League two years ago.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Everton fans from the bottom of my heart for their support," Jelavic said.

“They gave me their backing from day one and never stopped believing in me, which is something I will always remember.

“Everton supporters have a special way of making you feel like one of them, and even when I was not in the team in more recent times I always felt they were behind me.”

The 28 year-old endeared himself to Blues fans with a sensational start to his Goodison spell with a spate of goals that helped secure a 7th-place finish and a place in the FA Cup semi-finals in 2012.

At times the desire from the fans to see him come good was palpable and the celebrations of his goals against Tottenham in late 2012 and Manchester City in March last year will live long in the memory. Unfortunately, neither strike proved to be the catalyst that would reignite his goalscoring form.

He completed the paperwork on his move to Hull this week and admits that it was the need for first-team football in a World Cup year that drove his decision to leave Everton.

“Playing for Croatia is something I also take huge pride in and with a World Cup on the horizon I was in the situation of needing to play more games to make sure I remain in Niko Kovac's thoughts ahead of the tournament in Brazil,” he said.

“Unfortunately that wasn't happening at Everton, and Roberto Martinez was very honest and upfront with me about his thinking.

"While I'm sad to wave farewell to Everton and all my friends, it is time for my next challenge," he continued. "I'm only pleased that I was able to say goodbye with two goals in the FA Cup win against QPR, and share some special celebrations with them one last time.

“I hope to be celebrating many more goals in future, and I'm excited to get going at my new club. But you can guarantee the Toffees will remain in my heart. I hope they can go on to fulfil their ambitions this season and I will always look out for them.

“Hvala vam i sretno (Thankyou and good luck).”

Quotes or other material sourced from Liverpool Echo

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