Midfielder, Elliot Embleton has departed Sunderland for Blackpool for an undisclosed transfer fee.
Embleton previously spent the second half of 2020-21 season on loan at Blackpool with two goals in 21 appearances, but has now returned to Bloomfield Road on a permanent transfer.
The move also brings Embleton’s 19-year stint at Sunderland to a close since he arrived aged six years-old, having contributed 11 goals and nine assists in 92 senior appearances since his debut in December 2017.
His most memorable moment came in May 2022 as he scored the opening goal in an eventual 2-0 Play-Off Final win over Wycombe Wanderers, which secured promotion to the Championship via 2021-22 League One Play-Offs.
Addressing his decision to leave Wearside, Embleton issued the following statement in which he paid tribute to the club for their support.
“Sunderland has been my life since I joined at the age of six. Growing up I used to go to games at the Stadium of Light with my family and dream that one day I would be fortunate enough to play a first-team game.
“Words will never be able to describe that feeling when it happened, but not just that, to score in the Play-Off Final at Wembley is something I will never forget.
“I am proud to have played a small part in Sunderland’s history, but now is the right time to move on. I will forever be a Sunderland fan, and I look forward to coming to games as a supporter soon.
“To the many people behind the scenes who helped me along the way and to the fans, thank you.”
Sunderland Sporting Director, Kristjaan Speakman added that the 25 year-old had “been an incredible player for our Club.”
Speakman proceeded to reflect on Embleton’s role in their promotion and work ethic which will inspire academy players.
“I’m sure that when he first walked through the Academy of Light’s doors aged six, he couldn’t have envisaged scoring such a historic goal as the one he did at Wembley Stadium in the 2022 Play-Off Final.
“His efforts, and the efforts of those who supported him throughout his Sunderland journey, made that dream a reality.
Elliot’s attitude, desire to improve, and focus on football means he also departs as a superb role model for our next generation of academy players.”
Speakman though felt that now was the right time for Embleton to move on and seek regular game time due to injury in recent months, but iterated that he can’t wait to see Embleton return to the Stadium of Light as a oppositional player or spectator in future.
“The last 18 months have been tough for him and at this stage of his career when he needs to play regularly, this is a fantastic opportunity for him at a Club he knows well.
“Elliot will always be welcome at the Stadium of Light and we wish him the very best of luck for the future.”
Embleton echoed Speakman’s last sentiments as he told http://www.blackpoolfc.co.uk that he is “buzzing” to return to the Tangerines, and is eager to help them fight for successful in front of a larger crowd than in his previous spell.
“For me, I need to get back playing football and I’ve got such happy memories here, where I feel like I played well and we ultimately ended up getting promoted.
“I sampled the atmosphere against Oxford in the play-offs when there was just 4000 supporters in due to Covid restrictions, and even then it was unbelievable.
“I can’t wait to play at Bloomfield Road again with more supporters and hopefully we can get the place rocking this season.”
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