Star striker Bobby Zamora described his move to Tottenham Hotspur as the beginning of a fairy tale as he took his first steps on his new home ground at White Hart Lane.
But as he said farewell to Brighton and Hove Albion FC, he paid tribute to former teammates, managers and coaching staff for helping make his dream come true.
Standing on the pitch at the White Hart Lane stadium, he said: "I've always had self-motivation and self-confidence.
"I knew that if I worked hard and looked after myself, hopefully, things like this happen.
"Dreams do come true. This is the beginning of a fairy tale for me.
"I am grateful to Micky Adams for buying me from Rovers but I am equally grateful to Peter Taylor, Steve Coppell, Martin Hinshelwood, Bob Booker and Alan Cork. You name them.
"Everybody there has contributed to helping me progress. I really do appreciate all they have done for me."
The England under-21 player was yesterday sold to Premiership side Spurs for a club record of £1.5 million.
Brighton Chairman Dick Knight said he was sorry to lose Zamora but wished him well for the future.
He said: "Like all Albion fans I will miss him but he deserves his chance in the Premiership. I'm sure he will enjoy his chance at the top level."
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