After three Hyundai A-League seasons at Brisbane Roar, midfielder Thomas Kristensen will be departing the Club to return home to his native Denmark.
Kristensen has been an important cog in the Brisbane midfield throughout his three seasons at the Club, in which he made 60 Hyundai A-League appearances, scoring six goals in that time.
The Dane says he and his family will hold extremely fond memories of their time in Australia and at Brisbane Roar.
“It’s been three really good years and it was nice to have this experience late in my career. Even though this year hasn’t been the best, it’s not going to influence the experience I’ve had in Australia. It’s been fantastic on and off the pitch for myself and my family,” Kristensen said.
“The decision to return to Denmark is a family decision.
“I am looking forward to being closer and seeing more of my family and experiencing Danish food again. However, the Club has always been my second family here. It’s tough when you come from 17,000 kilometres away, but both the Club and the players have stepped in.
“It’s a family club and that has been nice living so far from home. I have made friendships that will last a life time.
The Dane highlighted two games in Brisbane orange, that he says will go down as two of the most thrilling games not just during his stint in Australia but throughout a lengthy professional career.
“When you get to sit down and look back on the last three seasons, it’s very emotional.
“Two games I will remember fondly, not only for my time in Brisbane, but throughout my whole career is the [AFC Asian Champions League] win in Shanghai, and the [Hyundai A-League] Elimination Final win against Western Sydney which we won on penalties [in 2017]. They were amazing games, particularly the win at Suncorp Stadium – the crowd was incredible.
“Brisbane Roar has some amazing fans! I would have like to have played the final game of the season at home, but I am happy that my last game for the Club was a win at Suncorp Stadium.”
Brisbane Roar CEO David Pourre thanked Kristensen for what the Dane has given to the Club since journeying to Australia in 2016.
“On behalf of everyone at BRFC, we would like to thank Thomas for his contribution over the last three seasons. We wish all the best in the future to him & his family,” Pourre said.