Dirk Kuyt has signed for Fenerbahce SK of Turkey in a 3 year deal, with the reds picking up a token £1M transfer fee for the player.
Dirk celebrates one of his many LFC goals
Kuyt was widely tipped to leave Anfield this summer after becoming a bit-part squad player, however many had expected him to return to his native Netherlands.
Dirk had a year left on his contract at Anfield - a contract which was extended only 14 months ago. However the club informed the player early this year that no further contract would be offered.
Dirk arrived shortly after the season had started in 2006, and his six seasons at the club he scored 71 goals in 285 appearances.
Initially bought as a striker, the arrival of Fernando Torres eventually saw Kuyt deployed on the right wing where he still managed to grab the goals. He finally ended his trophy drought at Anfield when he helped the reds to League Cup victory at the end of February this year.
Steven Gerrard wished the player all the best for the future:
"I know how much scoring against Cardiff in the Carling Cup Final meant to him but he was already assured a part of the club's history even before helping win that trophy.
"I will miss him around the place and I wish him and his family all the best in Turkey."
Liverpool FC also released a statement from Dirk himself to douse any speculation that his departure was linked to the arrival of the new manager.
"I would like to say my decision to leave Liverpool was nothing to do with the new manager coming in whatsoever. I just had the feeling that I had to go somewhere else for a new experience after six years. I made the decision but it's not about the new manager. I have great memories from my experience with the club.
"I'm sure Liverpool will improve under the new manager. Liverpool has a great squad of players and I'm sure with this manager they will do well. From the bottom of my heart I wish them all the best, wish the new manager all the best and I hope they will be very successful."
We would like to wish Dirk the very best of luck in his new challenge - and at this years European Championships.
One of the best players we’ve ever had.
I very hard worker but not the most naturally talented you’ll ever see. Had no pace whatsoever and was also a rather poor finisher in front of goal nonetheless good luck to him.
Purchased as a forward but wrongly used as a winger by Benitez in particular meant that we probably never got to see the best of him. I am not a fan of being played out of position so will give him the benefit of the doubt.
Brendon was correct in moving him on and will hopefully replace him with someone much more dynamic.
Deadly dirk half man, half machine! Thanks for the memories!
hoşgeldin kuyt.. welcome kuyt
Fenerbahce supporters as big as Liverpool supporters and As Fenerbahce supporter I can ensure all Liverpool that Kirt will be look after and loved in Turkey like you all loved him in Liverpool
Thank you! He’s great!
Thanks for everything Dirk….we will miss you but you will never walk alone!!
Great servant to LFC. Great goals which will immortalise him in the history of the club. All the best Dirk
yeah thx kirt
A great servant and a wonderful utility player. Well done Kirt, we will miss you.
Great guy he will never walk alone will be watching how he gets on