The image, as seen below, features Finley alongside teammates Antony Evans, James Connolly, and Jordan Rossiter.
Wael Al-Qadi, the president and co-owner of Bristol Rovers, was among the first to respond to Finley’s post, expressing his apparent intention to move on.
On Sunday, the 31-year-old posted an image on the social media platform ‘X’, formerly known as Twitter, with a caption that simply said: “Scouse Mafia – It’s been a pleasure”.
In response to his captain’s post on the social networking platform X, Mr. Al Qadi wrote: “Dear Sam, club captain, legend, and leader – true to your word that you’d get us promoted when you first joined. Thank you for everything.” I’ll see you shortly, buddy.”
Al-Qadi would also get a flurry of comments on a post he uploaded to the image-based social media network Instagram. Former and current players, including Nick Anderton, Josh Grant, and Jack Hunt, joined supporters in expressing their admiration for the departing Rovers captain.
Throughout his three years with the club, Finley has been a consistent presence in the Bristol Rovers midfield. He contributed five goals and seven assists in 36 games to the League Two promotion-winning campaign in his first year of play.
Finley was named team captain at the beginning of the 2023–24 season by former manager Joey Barton. Before suffering an injury that might have terminated his time at Rovers too soon, Finley made 38 appearances across all competitions, scoring once and dishing out two assists.
Finley’s perseverance, leadership among a group of ambitious players, and hard work earned him a place in the hearts of the Gas supporters. Although some view Finley as a midfield marshall, he has demonstrated the qualities of an innate leader.
The Rovers captain, who is never afraid to take a shot for the team, also developed a reputation among Gasheads as a player who is eager to participate in those awkward “Old School” moments during a game, picking up a fair number of bookings in the process.
Finley may look back on his time at the Gas with fondness if, as is predicted, injury has limited his season and he does not play in the last game against Wigan Athletic on Saturday. Finley made 121 appearances during his time at the Gas, scoring eight goals and dishing out twelve assists.
Along the way, they also earned one of the most remarkable promotions in football history.
