DANNY Graham says he is sad to have left Swansea City after completing a £5 million move to Sunderland.
Graham, who has scored 21 goals in 18 months as a Swan, has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at the Stadium of Light.
There has been speculation that Graham could go for much for the season because he has been unable to pin down a place in Michael Laudrup's side.
And there were suggestions this week that the 27-year-old wanted a return to his native North East for unspecified personal reasons.
"I'm sad to be leaving Swansea, but delighted to be joining Sunderland and moving back home to the North East for personal reasons," Graham said.
"I've really enjoyed my time at Swansea, but everyone moves on at some time in football.
"Obviously I would have liked more game-time this season, but that's the way it goes and I'm looking forward to the new challenge at Sunderland.
"I would like to think I played my part in Swansea's success so far in the Premier League, especially last season.
"I can only speak in a positive way about the club, especially the supporters and the squad of players. They have been outstanding and I'd like to thank everyone for making my time so enjoyable.
"I believe, 100 per cent, that the club has a bright future. The boys have done very well since stepping up to the Premier League and it will only get even better for them.
"There's a major cup final to look forward to and I'm sure they will continue to progress."
Swansea paid a then club-record £3.5 million for Graham following their promotion from the Championship in 2011.
He has since served Swansea admirably, and the club's fans had made it clear they did not want him to leave.
But Graham attracted interest from a host of a top-flight clubs when it became apparent that he was not central to Laudrup's Liberty plans.
His exit leaves Swansea with a hole to fill in their squad ahead of today's 11pm transfer deadline — but at this stage there is no guarantee that they will bring anybody in.
Despite not being a regular, Graham has netted seven Swansea goals this season, making him the club's second top-scorer behind Michu.
