Thanks for everything! Andrey Arshavin says goodbye to Arsenal

Andrey Arshavin has thanked everyone connected to Arsenal after the Russian’s spell in north London came to an end following the Gunners’ final game of the season.

The 31-year-old made nine substitute appearances in this season’s Premier League and Champions League, as well as two starts in the League Cup.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger revealed last month that he expected the Russian to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

And the midfielder, who remains Arsenal’s record signing after joining from Zenit Saint Petersburg for £15m back in 2009, paid tribute to the Gunners via his Twitter account after their 1-0 win at Newcastle secured a fourth-place finish and Champions League qualification.

“Thanks a lot to all Arsenal fans, to all my team partners, who played with me all these years, to all the staff and coaches! Many thanks,” Arshavin wrote.

The Russian added: “Gunners! Good luck in the Champions League next year!”

Arshavin, who returned to Zenit on loan during the second part of last season, scored 31 goals in all competitions for Arsenal after joining the club in January 2009.

He has been linked with a move to La Liga side Sevilla in recent weeks but was also reported to be considering retirement.