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Black Cats lose skipper, chase former Gunner | In an eventful day at Wearside, Sunderland lost captain Lorik Cana to the temptation of Champions League football at Turkish club Galatasary. Before anyone at the club could digest this shocking piece of news, the Black Cats have moved on to negotiating with veteran defender Sol Campbell, who recently ended a short second stint with Arsenal.
While the arrival of the 35-year-old free agent will do little to compensate for the departure of the energetic Cana, he will at least be able to add some experience to Steve Bruce’s side. Despite falling short of expectations in his return spell with the Gunners, the former England international can still end an impressive career on a positive note with a successful showing for Sunderland.
For his part, Cana bid farewell to everyone at the club in a very encouraging and professional manner. The Albanian star was honest in admitting that being closer to his family in Eastern Europe was an additional incentive in confirming a £5 million move to Galatasary. Nevertheless, he also conceded that the decision to leave England carried its share of difficulties.
“I have been offered the opportunity to play in European competition and the Champions League and especially to be closer to my family. This was not an easy decision for me though and I hope people understand.
“I gave my all for the club and it will always be in my memory. Since the first day I arrived I’ve had an amazing story with Sunderland.
“I knew I would find the kind of club and support I needed to play my game. The people here love their club, they have passion and a proper identity.
“I thank everyone at Sunderland – the coaching staff, medical team, office staff, my teammates and of course the fans. I wish the club to achieve everything it deserves and to continue moving higher and higher,” he concluded.
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