Wilfred Bouma has thanked Aston Villa fans for an emotional farewell.
Bouma was introduced to the supporters at half-time on the final day of the season against Blackburn and our departing left-back was given a rapturous ovation.
The cult hero insists the love shown by the fans will always be appreciated and mirrors the affection he feels for them too.
He told Villa's website: "It was emotional at half-time during the Blackburn game saying goodbye to the fans - that was hard, trust me.
"I couldn't say a thing. I wanted to talk on the microphone and address the tremendous supporters but I just couldn't do it.
"I think I would have been choked up and it would have been hard not to drop a couple of tears.
"The fans will always hold a special place in my heart. They were one of the guiding lights in me getting fit again - the encouragement they gave me was incredible.
