Kiko Femenia has told Watford fans he “will always carry you in my heart” in an emotional farewell from Vicarage Road.

The defender is set to complete a move to Villareal for a nominal fee after the Hornets confirmed at the weekend the right-back was moving back to play in his homeland and be closer to his family.

In a post on Instagram this evening, the 31-year-old said: “It is not easy to say goodbye to a Club that has given me so much. Since the very first day I have felt part of this amazing Family. Together, we have shared many special moments over these years.

Read more: Femenia off to Spain as Gaspar arrives

“For this reason, I would like to thank all my teammates and staff. Nor do I forget you, Hornets. You are an incredible encouragement to me and my Family.

“Today our paths are parting, but I will always carry you in my heart. Thanks for every single day.”

The former Real Madrid and Barcelona player joined Watford in the summer of 2017 from Alaves and has made 151 appearances in all competitions, scoring twice.