‘It’s been a year I’ll never forget’ – Alfie May’s emotional farewell message to Charlton fans

Alfie May has talked about his family situation being key in his decision to leave Charlton Athletic.

The striker, who celebrates his 31st birthday today, has signed a three-year contract at League One rivals Birmingham City.

May, who scored 27 goals in all competitions last season, sat down to post a video message explaining his decision to move on from the Addicks in which he was clearly emotional about the exit.

“It’s a difficult one for me really because I’m leaving my home town but it’s football and I’m doing it for my family,” last season’s League One Golden Boot winner told Charlton’s website.

“The main reason for me is the wife and the kids have moved back up north. We knew moving into the London area was going to be a big ask for my missus, it was something new for her. She just couldn’t get settled down here – she missed her family and she missed her friends.

“And the other reason is my eldest is going into big school and got rejected from three schools and then got tried to be put into another one. My wife and me sat down and had a good conversation regarding that – we made the decision I needed to move closer to my family home.

“To be closer to my wife and kids is massive for me. The age I am now, I don’t feel like I want to miss out on anything.

“The fan support is something I knew when I signed for the club – how big the club was. That away following last year was incredible, one of the biggest I’ve seen in the leagues. They supported me through the tough times when I wasn’t scoring. It’s been a pleasure to play for a local club.

“I knew I was going to score goals. The first couple of games where I had a dry spell, I knew there would be chances because of how many we were creating in games.

“I loved it (at Charlton) overall.

“Hopefully I leave on good terms, that’s what I want to leave on. I can’t thank everyone enough at the club that has supported me this year. It’s only been a year but it’s a year I’ll never forget.”

PICTURE: KYLE ANDREWS