'Never alone' - Daryl Dike addresses West Brom fans in heartfelt letter after exit

Daryl Dike has thanked Albion fans for standing by his side throughout an injury-ravaged four-and-a-half years at The Hawthorns.

The United States frontman officially departed the club at the end of his contract on June 30 and is a free agent this summer as he seeks a fresh start.

Dike turned 26 last month and underlined his gratitude to the Baggies faithful for sticking with him after “setback after setback and defeat after defeat”.

A £7million signing from Orlando City in January 2022, Dike could feature just 66 times for Albion across the duration of his contract, with only 25 of them starts. He endured at least five major injury setbacks, including two ruptured Achilles tendons, in a painstaking stint.

“After four and a half years at the club, my time has come to an end,” Dike wrote on social media.

“From the day I arrived in England, you were by my side, helping me live out a dream. Representing this club and wearing the Albion shirt was a privilege that I never took for granted. From my first game to my last, your support never wavered.

“Unfortunately, my time here also coincided with some of the most difficult years of my life. Setback after setback and defeat after defeat, there were many moments that tested me. But through it all, you kept me going. Not once did I feel alone.”

The sight of Dike being carried off in tears via a medical cart at Ipswich’s Portman Road will live in the memories of Albion fans, who were desperate to see the frontman come good.

“I was surrounded by incredible people every day,” he added. “The fans, the staff, and my teammates all played a huge part in helping me through the toughest moments.

“You became my family, and for that I will always be grateful. The support you showed me on my hardest days meant more than you will ever know.”

Dike scored 11 Albion goals in all, including two towards the end of last season to help James Morrison’s men to survival.

“Everyone knows how badly I wanted to succeed her,” he wrote. “I gave everything I had, and while not every story unfolds the way we hope, I have no regrets. This journey helped me grow as a player, but more importantly as a person.

“It gave me unforgettable memories, incredible experience and friendships that will last a lifetime.

“West Bromwich Albion will always hold a special place in my heart. I will always look back on my time here with pride, gratitude, and respect for everyone connected to this club.

“Thank you for believing in me, supporting me, and standing by me throughout this journey. I wish the club, the fans, and everyone associated with Albion nothing but success in the future.”