Roberto De Zerbi has said an emotional farewell to Albion fans at the Amex.

The departing head coach took the microphone after his side’s 2-0 defeat at home to Manchester United.

Fans sang “We want you to stay” as De Zerbi gave a farewell speech.

He said: “It is a very tough moment for me and my staff.

“First of all I want to say thank you to Tony Bloom.

“You are a great owner and I don’t forget that.

“He gave me the opportunity to meet the Premier League, to meet my amazing players.

“To meet and to know Brighton city.

“You don’t know but I have a special connection with the city. I love Brighton city.

“This morning I went walking in the city thinking about what we have done together in this 18 months and I think we gave our best.

“I gave my best, my staff gave their best.

“My players gave their best.”