Ross McCormack admits it wasn’t an easy decision to leave Fulham – and hopes the Cottagers enjoy a successful season.

The Scottish striker completed a £12m move to Aston Villa on Thursday morning but he has left Craven Cottage on good terms after scoring 42 goals in 100 appearances for the Whites. In an interview with the Fulham official website, McCormack said:

“I really enjoyed my time at Fulham. The fans took to me right away and hopefully over the two years they saw that I tried my very best to do my job. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

“It was a tough decision because I’ve made some really good friends, not even just the playing squad. I get on really well with the kit man and other staff, and I’ve got mates who I’ve met outside the club as well. So it was a tough decision. I’d like to thank the fans for all the support that they’ve given me. Thanks for continuing to show up in good numbers even when the team was struggling at times. They helped us get through some sticky situations.”

McCormack already has an eye on a possible return to the Cottage in April. “It’s a long time away but I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “It will be good to see some of the lads again, and the fans. Hopefully it will be a better reception than I get when I go back to Leeds! I think it will be.”

“I’ve done my best the last two years and hopefully the fans have seen that. I haven’t left for a little bit of money, the club have made profit on me, so I think it’s all good.”