Published Thursday, 19 January 2012
Patterson joined the Blues in the summer on loan from Plymouth Argyle.
Linfield manager David Jeffrey says he will be sorry to lose a player of Patterson's calibre.
"I spoke with the Derry Chairman on Thursday and I made Rory aware of the interest from Derry," he told the club's website.
"Rory made it very clear that despite this interest, his focus was very much on Linfield and indeed, we all saw that as he turned in a super performance on Saturday scoring three goals.
"It was an excellent display and two of the goals were first class. I also spoke to Declan Devine, the new Derry manager who also re-iterated his club's desire to sign Rory.
"Derry have since made an offer to Rory. In no way was it a matter of allowing Rory to walk away from Linfield. I've been in communication with our Team Committee and put to Rory what we could offer him by way of contract.
"Rory has considered not just the contractural and financial implications of the offers but also the practicalities of undertaking a four hour round trip to Windsor three times a week, as opposed to a shorter 15 minute drive to the Brandywell.
"Having weighed up all these considerations and factors, he has decided that it is in his best interests to sign for Derry City.
"He leaves with our full support and our best wishes. Throughout this process, he has been most professional, open and honest. He has conducted himself in an exemplary manner.
"From the texts I have received from him, I know how appreciative he has been of all the club has done for him."