Sunderland obviously made a lasting impact on Eden Hazard during his time in England.
The Belgian superstar has this week completed his big transfer from Chelsea to Real Madrid, and yet Sunderland came into his mind when saying farewell to Blues fans.
In an Instagram post saying goodbye, Hazard name-checked the Black Cats as he spoke about memories of his time with Chelsea.
He wrote: "The memories are vivid because of the atmosphere and occasion you create.
"I hope you always remember them with pride, as I do.
"Whether it's on tour in the USA, or at Sunderland on a Tuesday night, in Russia on a Thursday, or of course EVERY game at the Bridge - you've always supported me and encouraged me to play football and be me.
"Like I have enjoyed myself, I hope you have enjoyed yourselves, I am only sorry to not leave with a defending award amongst my honours."
While just a fleeting mention of the Black Cats, it's interesting that of all the teams he could have chose, it was Sunderland the superstar went with.
Perhaps a nod top the great atmosphere on Wearside under the floodlights, or perhaps recognition of how tough the Stadium of Light can be to visit.
Hazard, though, departs Chelsea with a good record against Sunderland. He won five of the seven games he played against the Wearsiders, although he managed just three goals in those games.
Inside Sunderland's Academy
Stuart Rayner was given exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Sunderland's Academy. Here are the key stories and features.
Better than Liverpool
Better than Liverpool: How Sunderland's Academy is blazing a trail in football
We're so proud of Henderson and Pickford - but it's just the start
How Sunderland's Academy graduates are making the grade together
Why loan moves can be crucial for Sunderland's stars of tomorrow
From the head down
'From the head down rather than the feet up' - Sunderland's safety net is vital
Judgement comes every day for Sunderland's youngsters - dealing with that is crucial
Sunderland Acacdemy role models don't have to take the Premier League route
Evolution
How Sunderland are at the forefront in the evolution of coaching juniors
Four key principles - but flexibility is the key for Sunderland's Academy
It's not just football - why focus on education and psychological needs is growing
Why
Forget the league table - this is why Sunderland's academy have had a good season
'The academy players probably get more scrutiny' - Sunderland's Lynden Gooch
Premier League poachers provide biggest threat to Sunderland's academy
What Sunderland's first team want from the Academy - and how they deliver