Daniel Sturridge has paid tribute to Trabzonspor management after his release last week.

Just a day after leaving the Turkish giants, Sturridge was banned from football until June 17 and fined £150,000 after the FA appealed against a previous betting ban that they saw as too lenient.

The England striker explained: "Devastating for me, I'm absolutely gutted about it. My season's over.

"I feel uncomfortable, and I just don't think it's the right thing for me to continue accepting wages from a team that I can't contribute to due to being banned.

"I have come to a mutual agreement with Trabzonspor to mutually terminate my contract.

"I would just like to thank the Trabzonspor family, the players, the fans, coaching staff, medical team, president, vice-president.

"I'm very grateful for you inviting me into your city and allowing me to enjoy my football.

"Also I want to thank everybody who has supported me and sent me so many well-wishes. It is very much appreciated at a difficult time for me.

"I appreciate that and I'm very grateful, so thank you very much."