The newly-signed Al Ahly attacker Percy Tau has paid an emotional tribute to Brighton and Hove Albion, thanking the club for taking a risk by signing him, despite the complications that accompanied the deal.
Brighton took a leap of faith in 2018, forking out a fee believed to be around ±R50 million to Mamelodi Sundowns for his services, knowing that he might never get to play for the club due to stringent work permit regulations in the UK.
Three loan spells, all in Belgium, ensued but Tau finally got to turn out for the Seagulls, who recalled the 27-year-old from his loan with Anderlecht in January this year.
In total, Tau made six appearances for coach Graham Potter’s side, and registered one assist.
After he was officially unveiled by Al Ahly, where he is reunited with his former coach Pitso Mosimane, Tau took to social media to pen a heartfelt tribute to the English outfit.
“Thank you @OfficialBHAFC for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the club. I’m proud of my journey and very proud of my time at Brighton. You gave me the opportunity I never imagined growing up in Witbank.
“A decision to sign me with all the complications that were in place. I’m grateful. I want to say more but my lack of social expression defeats me. (To) the supporters of the club, thank you,” he posted on Twitter.
The club, who managed to salvage some of their investment thanks to the £1.6m (±R32.7m) transfer fee received from Ahly, in turn, thanked the Witbank-born star for his contribution to the club.
“Thank you for your efforts here, Percy! Wishing you all the best for the future,” they stated on their official Twitter account.