STRIKER Omar Bogle bid an emotional farewell to Solihull Moors after joining National League side Grimsby Town for an undisclosed fee.
The 22-year-old put pen-to-paper on a three year deal at Blundell Park which brings to an end his hugely successful time at the Autotech Stadium.
Bogle was the Conference North’s top goalscorer last season with 29 goals and his impressive performances throughout the campaign earned him the Conference North’s Player Of The Season award.
Earlier in the campaign he was also selected for the England ‘C’ squad for the International Trophy Group A match against Estonia last year.
Bogle’s future had been the subject of much rumour and speculation in recent months as his achievements have not gone unnoticed by clubs in both the National League and Football League.
But Grimsby have won the race to sign one of the hottest properties currently in non-league football.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Moors for the support they’ve given me these last three years, especially the younger fans who have shown a lot of love towards me.
“I’ll miss them a lot and can’t thank those that have supported me enough.
“I’d also like to thank my team mates because without them I wouldn’t of had my own success and I’ve made lifelong friends being at the club.
“Last but not least, the gaffer, he’s believed in me more than anybody else and given me the freedom to be myself on and off the pitch and pushed me to become a better player.
“I know that will serve me well in the long run. I am sure Marcus will be a league manager one day and should I get into the league myself, I hope our paths will cross again.”
Bogle started his career at the Birmingham City Academy, appearing for their Reserves when only just 16-years-old.
A move to Scottish giants Celtic followed in January 2012 where he featured in their Under 19s team but returned south within a few months to pursue regular first team action.
He became a vital part of Marcus Bignot’s team since he joined Moors back in 2012 and he went on to make 121 appearances, scoring 68 goals.
He has played a huge part in transforming Moors into a regular top half of the table team and his input will be sorely missed
Bignot added: “Omar is now a step closer to fulfilling his ambitions by moving into full time football at a higher level.
“There is a realistic opportunity for him and his new club to be in the Football League very soon.
“Everyone at the club would like to thank Omar for his professionalism and his contribution to Solihull Moors Football Club, both on and off the field of play and would like to take this opportunity to wish him continued success for the future – we will watch his development at the higher level with keen interest.”
