One of the finest centre-halves ever to play in the Premier League has hung up his boots for the last time.
Strikers can breathe a sigh of relief as there is going to be no last-gasp return to the English top flight for Nemanja Vidic.
Vidic, who recently parted company with Inter, was on many managers’ wishlists as the former Manchester United captain could likely still do a job for most sides.
The 34-year-old announced his retirement on Friday, just over 10 years to the day since making his United debut.
Vidic struck up an almost impenetrable partnership with Rio Ferdinand at Old Trafford as part of a back four that included both Gary Neville and Patrice Evra.
Alex Ferguson handed the former Serbia international the captain’s armband in 2010 and Vidic still holds a place in the hearts of almost all United fans.
“The time has come for me to hang up my boots,” he said. “The injuries I have had in the last few years have taken their toll.
“I would like to thank all the players I have played with, all the managers and staff I have worked with, and say a big ‘thank you’ to the fans for their support over the years.”
There had been rumours of a sensational Jurgen Klopp swoop for Vidic, as well as less sensational interest from Aston Villa, but the tough-tackling defender has ended all speculation by bringing an illustrious career to a close.
And fans were understandably pretty beaten up by it.
Nemanja Vidic has retired from football. What a centre-half he was. Top drawer one of my favourite ever at United.
— Mark Mcilkenny (@LittleRickiee) January 29, 2016
Thank you for everything beast NEMANJA VIDIC. @ManUtd pic.twitter.com/1ZjLg92OtY
— Saranda (@AyaSarandi) January 29, 2016
https://twitter.com/gavi27/status/693044268840140800
Nemanja Vidic's partnership with @rioferdy5 was outstanding, complemented each other perfectly… @ManUtd #MUFC
— Matthew Hamilton (@MHammo1990) January 29, 2016
https://twitter.com/RadicalRegista/status/693044051214475264
Sad to see Nemanja Vidic retire today. As a younger supporter, genuinely one of best I've ever seen. True warrior & leader. #MUFC
— Paul @StrettyNews #GlazersOut (@RowlesPaul) January 29, 2016
Thank you Nemanja Vidic✌🏿️
Always in my heart for putting out your head where people fear to 'scratch' their shins. Bravest defender ever— just Kwame (@kboakye92) January 29, 2016
https://twitter.com/allofmufc/status/693043394185007104
A gentle giant – beast of a player but a warm, fun and friendly guy off the pitch. True #mufc legend. #VivaVidic https://t.co/nrMoIdJtlO
— Gemma Thompson 👹 (@gem7thompson) January 29, 2016
The best center back has officially retire! Thank you so much for the memories! #VivaVidic #CaptVida
— SIV (@AmirAlHabshee) January 29, 2016
Vidic will be forever one of my all-time favourite defenders. Did what had to be done without a fuss. Class act till the end. #VivaVidic
— Steven Talevski (@steventalevski) January 29, 2016
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