Kenny Jackett has spoken publicly for the first time since being sacked as Wolverhampton Wanderers manager.
The 54-year-old was dismissed from his post and replaced by Walter Zenga at the end of last month, just one week after the Championship side were taken over by Chinese conglomerate Fosun International.
Jackett had maintained silence over his departure but issued a statement through the League Managers Association on Monday to thank the Wolves staff and fans.
"Having reflected on my time at Wolverhampton Wanderers, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to everyone connected with the club," Jackett said. "I am proud of my record, having achieved 50 wins quicker than any other Wolves manager and leaving with the second-highest win rate of any post-war Wolves manager.
"I also take great pride in the achievements of the team and coaching staff in consolidating our status as a Championship club and I am confident that strong foundations are now in place to enable Wolves to continue towards its aim of securing promotion back to the Premier League.
"The Championship is going to be an extremely competitive and challenging league this year but I have faith in the squad we leave behind and wish the players the best of luck. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as manager of Wolverhampton Wanderers, a huge club with great tradition, and I thank the players, Board, staff, fans and everyone within the community for their support."
During his three years at the helm in the Midlands, Jackett earned Wolves the League One title with a record points total during his first season in charge, before guiding them to within a whisker of the Championship playoff places the following season.
Neil Wilkes
