Veteran defender Eric Mathoho has penned an emotional farewell message to Kaizer Chiefs and its supporters following his exit from the club.

The 33-year-old spent 11 years at Amakhosi since moving to the club from Bloemfontein Celtic back in July 2012.

He has since amassed a total of 259 appearances across all competitions and has grabbed one assist while scoring 26 goals in the process.

Over the course of his career, Mathoho has netted 30 goals and assisted on in 317 appearances in all competition playing for Bloemfontein Celtic and Chiefs, respectively.

On an international stage, Mathoho has represented Bafana Bafana 34 times across all competitions.

After Chiefs announced the departure of Mathoho, the veteran defender penned a letter to the Naturena-based outfit, which reads:

“Firstly I’d like to thank my chairman (Dr Motaung) for the opportunity to play for one of the biggest teams in Africa, not only the country, Kaizer Chiefs,” he wrote on Instagram.

“You and the entire family have welcomed me with open arms and treated me as one of your own throughout our entire journey.

“In those 11 years we shared some great memories and moments together. To all Kaizer Chiefs supporters, I’d like to thank you for the support and kindness you’ve shown towards me through thick and thin, both on and off the pitch.

“To all my teammates, I’d like to thank you for the moments we shared on the pitch. Love & Peace.

“To the QT Sports family, thank you for the opportunity to work with you, representing me.”