News'There are no words to express how proud I am' - Gemma Bonner's LFC Women farewell message

The defender captained the Reds to back-to-back Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014 during her first spell at the club.

Bonner returned at the beginning of 2023 to help the team consolidate their status back in the top flight – and became the leading appearance maker for Liverpool in the WSL era with, to date, 186 games.

She will depart the club following this season’s final fixture, against Arsenal at Anfield on Saturday, and has written the following letter to supporters.

Dear Reds,

After two spells and nine incredible years, the time has come to say goodbye and to thank you for everything the club has given me.

When I left the first time, I never really got a proper chance to say goodbye, so this moment feels especially emotional for me.

This club has played such a huge role in my journey both on and off the pitch, and I will always be grateful for my time here.

When I first pulled on that Liverpool kit as a young girl, little did I know what huge part of my life the club was going to become. It has been more than just a football club to me. It has become my family and my home from home.

There are no words to express how proud I am to have represented you on and off the pitch. I have felt your love and support in every moment and being a Liverpool fan for my whole life, I cannot express how much that has meant to me.

From the moment I first arrived in 2012, I knew this club and this city were like no other. Together we have celebrated two WSL titles, amongst many unforgettable victories and incredible memories.

There have also been painful defeats but your support through those has always been second-to-none and driven me to give even more for this club and every single one of its supporters.

I will cherish every moment, both the highs and the lows. And the memories I have made will stay with me forever.

During my time with Liverpool, I have been fortunate enough to play alongside many great players and built lasting friendships that I will hold close to me forever.

To my teammates past and present, thank you for all the laughs we have shared and for always having my back. We couldn’t have achieved everything we have without each other.

This past season has taught me a lot about myself. It has been challenging in many ways, especially dealing with the loss of Matt. Reflecting back, I remember fondly the tears of both joy and pain we both shared on and off the pitch.

Captaining this club to back-to-back titles and playing in the Champions League under his leadership is certainly an achievement I couldn’t be more proud of.

I also want to give a special thank you to the people who work behind the scenes at the club. Whilst not in the spotlight, they are integral to making this team what it is, especially Susan Black, who has been so supportive of me throughout my time here.

Saying goodbye is never easy, especially after being together for so long. I leave with nothing but gratitude, respect and love for you all.

Despite what has been a difficult season for me, I am proud to leave this club and team in a better place. No matter where football takes me next, I will always be one of you.

Hopefully this is not a goodbye forever and in the future I can return to the club in a new capacity.

Thank you for always standing by me and showing me what it really means to never walk alone.