New Bournemouth striker Jermain Defoe has released a statement expressing his thanks to Sunderland fans following his exit from the club.

Defoe completed his move to Bournemouth on a free transfer earlier this afternoon, having been allowed to leave the Black Cats following their relegation from the Premier League last season.

The 34-year-old scored 37 goals in 93 appearances during his two-and-a-half-year stay at the Stadium of Light, and he expressed his desire to see the club back in the top flight as soon as possible.

Defoe previously spent a season on loan at Bournemouth in 2000-01, scoring 19 goals in 31 appearances.