Alou Diarra says Charlton will always be a club close to his heart after he chose to leave the Valley and return to France.

The Addicks agreed to cancel the midfielder’s contract after Diarra made the decision to be closer to his family.

The experienced World Cup finalist was an influential character both on and off the field and thanked fans for their support following his exit.

The 35-year-old told the official Charlton website: “I would like to say thank you to the fans and to the club for giving me a chance to play in England.

“I'm very proud of the experience I have had here and I will never forget my time at Charlton.

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“I have met some fantastic people here and I hope that the future for the club will be great because Charlton is now my family and the fans deserve for this club to get back to where it belongs.

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“Last season was very difficult, but I gave everything for the shirt and always tried to do my best. It is now the right time to leave for me and my family to go home to France.”

Diarra added: “Charlton will stay in my heart for the rest of my life and I know that I will be back to watch some games in the future.”

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