Ghanaian defender Dennis Appiah leaves French outfit St Etienne

French-born Ghanaian defender Dennis Appiah has parted ways with St Etienne following the end of his contract.

The veteran right-back leaves after four years at the club, helping the team earn promotion back to Ligue 1 following their relegation.

In an emotional farewell message, Appiah thanked the club but admitted he regretted not being able to help the team remain in Ligue 1.

"Supporters of Les Verts, friends of Saint-Étienne, the time has come for me to say goodbye. Wearing the green jersey was one of the experiences I absolutely wanted to have in my career. I had the privilege of doing so more than 100 times. I tried, to the best of my ability, to live up to these colours and this crest.

"I want to thank all the teammates and friends with whom I shared the dressing room, as well as the members of the various staffs I had the chance to work with. And I mustn't forget all the people who work behind the scenes every day to keep the green machine rolling.

"When I arrived, I set myself several goals: to help the club stay in Ligue 2, to get back to Ligue 1, to experience a derby at Geoffroy-Guichard and, above all, to win it. I was fortunate enough to achieve all of that. My only regret will remain not having been able to help the club stay in Ligue 1. It's a disappointment I share with everyone who loves ASSE.

"I sincerely wish the club all the best, hoping to see it quickly return to the top flight. Thank you to everyone who keeps this club going and supports it every day. See you soon. Go Greens!"

Appiah made 98 appearances for the club during his four-year spell at St Etienne.