Andy Considine must have felt the love as the Dons fans united in their show of support for the departing Aberdeen defender today.
The 35-year-old captained his hometown club on his final appearance for the Reds, 18 years after he made his debut.
Considine’s time at Pittodrie may be at an end, but he departs with the well wishes and adulation of the Aberdeen fans after close to two decades of service.
The GIFs were out in full force for the departing Don.
— Fleego (@Fleego) May 15, 2022
— ER1501 (@emrobb100) May 15, 2022
You get the picture – tears for souvenirs at the end of a distinguished Dons career.
On Facebook, Ian Jackson wrote: “Wonderful Considine 571 appearances. He has been a wonderful servant to our great club. 571 appearances is mind blowing.”
Tim Burnett added: “Delighted to see Considine as captain. All the best Andy, sad to see you go.”
Back on Twitter, the decision by Jim Goodwin to give Considine the captain’s armband for the 0-0 draw with St Mirren was warmly received.
Now I'm crying 😭 Andy captain nice touch. COYR 🔴⚪🔴⚪
— Kimberley MacDonald (@KimberleyMacD12) May 15, 2022
Considine captaining us is very good for the heart
— chidi (@FreeNwakali) May 15, 2022
Aberdeen fans, like Considine, have had weeks to come to terms with the news he is leaving after the club withdrew the offer of a one-year extension.
But, for some, the decision remains a hard one to take.
Andy Crossan wrote on Facebook: “Treating Andy Considine like he is Paul Pogba or something just because he thought he deserved a bit more for his last contract …..shambles.
“I can’t think of a better more devoted professional. He is going to be playing somewhere else next season and will still have more love and passion for Aberdeen than any of the current crop.
“Sign all players from elsewhere all you want…..none of them will love Aberdeen like (he) did.
“Might not be the quickest but his reading of the game and leadership is so valuable.”
Connor Stuart went along similar lines, saying: “Andy Considine must have felt the love as the Dons fans united in their show of support for the departing Aberdeen defender today.”
One of the most consistent performers at the club in my lifetime. The way the club and Jim Goodwin handled his contract situation is disgraceful. To lose his potential influence in youth development is a travesty. A club legend.
— Alan Adam (@ARAdam86) May 15, 2022
Regardless of whether you support the decision or disagree with it, so it has come to pass that Considine is heading for pastures new.
Perhaps this post on Twitter sums it up best for the departing Don.
Goodbye sweet prince 🥺😭❤️
— Liam (@Leemo1903) May 15, 2022