Departed striker Luciano Becchio has issued a message of thanks to all Leeds United fans and the club after his four and a half year stint at Elland Road came to an end this week.

The South American marksman, who first linked up with the club during the tour of Ireland in the summer of 2008, scored 86 goals in 221 appearances and recently established himself in the all-time top 10 leading league goalscorers.

A popular figure with fans, Luciano, who handed in a transfer request in January, joined Norwich this week in a deal with saw Canaries striker Steve Morison arrive at Elland Road. While looking forward to a new chapter in his career, Luciano has moved to thank the fans and the club following his time here.

"The years I spent at Leeds were the most marvellous, and until today, the happiest of my career," said Luciano. "I will carry the affection and love of the Leeds fans in my heart.

"I want to thank Leeds United for giving me the opportunity to play in the English league and I would like to thank Gwyn Williams for giving me the chance to play for Leeds United.

"Now I have begun a new chapter in my career, in Norwich. I don't have any doubt that I will find the same love and affection as I did from the Leeds fans at Norwich.

"This is a challenge for me to play in the Premier League, but it's an important challenge that I want to give myself.

"I would also like to thank Norwich for giving me the chance to play in the Premier League. I want to thank the Norwich manager for giving me this chance. I want to pay him back for all the sacrifice and effort he put in to getting me this move."