Karamoko Dembele sends Blackpool message as ex Celtic kid opens up on 'chance he's longed for'

Karamoko Dembele has thanked Blackpool for providing him the first-team opportunities he has craved for years as he prepares to depart.

The former Celtic wide man, 21, has shone at Bloomfield Road for the Tangerines this term with nine goals and 14 assists in all competitions for the club since arriving on loan from Brest last summer. The playmaker had been unable to nail down a starting spot in Ligue 1 before making the switch but has enjoyed his time in the EFL and impressed.

Dembele may not be sure of what's to come next in his career but he certainly earned interest from other clubs with a big transfer window expected for the kid. But he heaped praise on the League One club for giving him a shot and he wished them luck for their efforts next season after narrowly missing out on promotion.

"It’s been my pleasure to have played for @blackpoolfc, giving me the chance that I’ve longed for and I will be forever grateful to yous!" Dembele said on social media. "To the fans: The love and support you have given me throughout the season has been incredible, although we didn’t achieve our goal we gave it our all.

"Lastly, I’d like the thank my teammates, the staff and a special thanks to the Gaffer. I’m hopeful next season will be a better one for the team.

"See you soon".