ADELAIDE United confirmed the anticipated departure of former Munno Para junior, and One Tree Hill local, Craig Goodwin this past fortnight to Saudi Arabian club Al-Wehda.

The star winger, who has won four Socceroos caps, returned to the Reds last season and dominated throughout the campaign, netting a brace in the FFA Cup final at Coopers Stadium.

The 27-year-old thanked the club for allowing him to return last year.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Adelaide United for the way they’ve treated me over the last 12 months,” Goodwin said.

“Coming back to South Australia and getting the opportunity to represent my hometown club is something I’ll always be grateful for and to have been part of another team to win silverware here will stay with me throughout the rest of my career.

“I also want to thank the Reds fans for their incredible support and their dedication to the Adelaide United badge because it was an honour to play in front of you.

“It’s sad to be leaving Adelaide, but there will always be a warm place in my heart for a club that has given me so much over my football journey.”

Adelaide United director of football Bruce Djite added it was unfortunate to see Goodwin go.

“It is always disappointing to lose key players, but this is the reality of the global football economy for every single club in the world,” he said.

“Internally, we had hoped Craig would test himself once again in Europe, however once he made it clear that this was an offer he was very keen to accept, we were not going to stand in his way.

“On behalf of the entire club, I’d like to thank Craig for his great dedication and efforts last season.

“Craig departs with the club’s blessing and we wish him all the best for his future.”