AARON Connolly says he will never forget the love he felt from Sunderland's fans after the striker completed his move to Millwall.

Despite his short stint at Sunderland not necessarily going to plan on the pitch, Connolly, who opened up on his struggles with alcohol in a revealing interview last year, is leaving the Stadium of Light in a "good place", and said: "I owe a lot of that to the people at the club, including my teammates and the staff."

Connolly made 11 appearances for Sunderland, including three starts, and scored one goal, which came against the side he's now joined. Connolly has linked up with ex-Sunderland boss Alex Neil at the Den and is available to make his debut against his former club Hull City this weekend.

After his Sunderland exit was confirmed, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: “Aaron leaves with our best wishes and we thank him for his contribution this season. He's in a really good place and has a desire to play more regular minutes, which is only natural considering his journey.

"I’m really pleased for him, as sometimes it’s forgotten that these players are regular people, who need care and support. We enjoy developing players and I think we’ve played an important part in Aaron’s story, which is something our players, staff, and supporters should be very proud of.”

Connolly added: “When I spoke to Kristjaan, I just thanked him for the opportunity this club gave me when many others wouldn’t. It is something I will never forget and the love I felt from the fans after my first interview until my final game is something that I will always be grateful for. Physically and mentally, I leave Sunderland in a good place.

"I’m now ready to play games regularly and I appreciate the club’s understanding in allowing me to pursue this opportunity. I wish everyone at Sunderland the best of luck for what I’m sure will be a memorable end to a great season.”

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Connolly was behind Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda in the Sunderland attacking pecking order, and with the Black Cats planning to further strengthen their forward line this month, the former Brighton striker would have found opportunities hard to come by.

Boss Regis Le Bris and Connolly discussed the striker's situation and it was decided a move was best for all parties.

Steve Gallen, Millwall director of football, said: "We're pleased to bring Aaron into the club. When Alex and I met him, we really liked his enthusiasm for what we want to do here.

"Aaron's been a bit unlucky not to play a bit more at Sunderland this season, but that has given us an opportunity to get him in.

"Still only 24, Aaron has a lot of experience for his age. He is at his best when running at defenders and we hope he gets plenty of opportunities to do that with us."