Kingston Says Goodbye To Sweden

Ghanaian 'keeper Richard Kingston

Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingston has paid tribute to supporters of Swedish side Hammarby as his three-month loan spell ends on Saturday.

The 29-year-old will revert to Turkish club Antalyaspor as Hammarby failed to meet the financial demands to seal a permanent deal for the 'keeper.

Kingston was signed in March to replace injured 'keeper Erland Hellstrom.

But the calibre of his performances were such that the side from Solna have been unable to compete with reported offers from at least five other potential suitors. "Now my loan's up, I just want to thank the management, the players and the fans who have been absolutely magnificent to me," Kingston said.

"I had really wanted to stay here but unfortunately Hammarby have been unable to meet the financial demands of Antalyaspor.

"I owe the supporters of Hammarby a huge debt."

Kingston leaves the club just two days before their Intertoto Cup first round second leg tie against Klaksvik of Faroe Islands.

"We are grateful for what Richard has done for us and we wish him all the best," Hammarby press officer Urban Rybrink said.

The Ghana keeper has been linked to clubs in England, Denmark and Israel as he seeks an end to his eleven-year spell in Turkey.

"I am happy that English side Birmingham and some clubs in Denmark and Israel are in talks to sign me," Kingston said.

"I am confident that Antalyaspor and my agent will reach a deal soon for me to play for a top club in Europe."

Kingston played for Turkish sides Sakaryaspor, Goztepe, Elazigspor and Galatasaray in his eleven-year stay in the country.