ADAM LALLNA broke into tears after being subbed off in his final appearance for Brighton.
The former Liverpool midfielder skippered the Seagulls in their final Premier League match of the 2023/24 campaign against Manchester United.
And outgoing Brighton chief Roberto De Zerbi made sure to give him an appropriate send-off by substituting him just after the half-time interval.
The Amex Stadium broke out into rapturous applause for the 36-year-old, who was overcome with emotion.
Lallana, who was embraced by several of his team-mates, started to tear up before he trudged off the pitch.
And he was given a big hug by De Zerbi after he crossed the touchline.
Brighton fans were quick to thank the former England man for his service, with one taking to X to write: “Thank you for everything, Adam Lallana.”
Aanother said: “Well done Adam Lallana.”
And another said: “Adam Lallana I remember your Southampton days also.”
One remarked: “Thank you, Adam.”
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Another chimed in: “Adam Lallana has built quite a legacy at Brighton, huh?”
Lallana has opted to leave Brighton despite De Zerbi asking him to extend his four-year stay.
He revealed: “It was a tough decision, but it just feels like the right time, not just for myself but for the club as well.
“I’ve been in talks with Roberto for the past couple of months and he expressed his wish for me to stay and keep playing.
“However, after taking a little time to think about where the football club is at, and having been away from my family for the last four years, I just feel it’s the right time.
“I’ve been speaking with my family throughout the year.
“And the biggest influence on my decision was my kids, who need me around a bit more at the age they’re at.
“I feel it’s time in my life and in my career to put them first.
“Last week I told Roberto, the club and my teammates, who are extremely important to me.
“Now I just want to enjoy my last week, get a couple of really positive results, and finish the season on a high.”
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