So Long, Skipper.

Early this morning, it was announced that Gary Neville has agreed to step down from his position as Manchester United's captain.

For so long, Gary hasn't been able to be our regular right-back because of his injuries. When he finally made his return against Everton, the armband wasn't around his sleeve, it was firmly fastened on Nemanja Vidic's arm. From that moment, I knew a new page had turned for Manchester United and that one of our biggest fans was going to be stripped of something so dear to his heart. Gary Neville has Manchester United in his veins. There is no other person I can think of that loves Manchester United as much as this man. He is undoubtedly our number one fan.

Just to illustrate how integral Gary's been to us over the years, you just have to think about all the changes around the United squad over the past 17 seasons. Almost for the entirety of that period, our automatic choice at right-back was Gary Neville. Game after game, season after season, Gary was there to support Beckham, to defend Ronaldo, and to be our captain. More recently, his injury troubles have prevented him from playing in as many games as before, and this is the main reason for his departure from the post of United captain.

He may be hated by all non-United fans, but his unquestionable loyalty is rare. He may not be our captain on the pitch, but he'll still have it branded to his heart.

Thank you Mr. Neville. You've done us proud.