Zak Swanson has sent a message to Arsenal after completing his permanent transfer to Portsmouth this week.

Writing on Instagram after completing his transfer to Portsmouth, Zak Swanson showed his gratitude to Arsenal for his time with the club.

“It’s been a privilege to play for the club I’ve always supported for 15 years,” Swanson said.

“To start at the club from the age of six and to have met and played with some top players and people, it’s been an honour!

“There’s been many ups and downs but it’s been a journey I will never forget and will always live with me. A massive thank you to everyone involved with the club for the help and support over this time.

“I wish everyone at the club nothing but the best and every success going forward. Once a gunner, always a gunner!”

Portsmouth write that Swanson has signed an initial two-year deal, but with a club option for a further 12 months. Arsenal will receive an undisclosed fee for the transfer.

Blues boss Danny Cowley says that Zak “brings an energy and athleticism to our squad after a fantastic footballing education at Arsenal”.

21-year-old right-back Swanson never made his competitive debut for Arsenal, but he seemed to be making good progress last season.

The defender appeared on the bench for Mikel Arteta’s Premier League side 15 times in a row between February and May.

Jack Wilshere suggested to Daily Cannon just over a month ago that clubs would take notice of that, and would be more likely to take a chance on Swanson this summer. Evidently, he was right.

The youngster will now get a proper shot at senior football in the English lower leagues.