Not even a year on from bidding farewell to Steven Gerrard, Liverpool fans must now come to terms with the fact that another club legend, Jose Enrique, has played his last game for the club.
Signed from Newcastle in 2011, it was announced on Monday that after five glorious years in Liverpool red, Enrique had been released by the club.
The timing of the news is particularly unfortunate for those that hold Liverpool close to their hearts. With Anfield’s new stand taking shape and a European final to look forward to, fans have been looking to the future with a renewed sense of optimism in recent weeks. Now, they have to face up to the fact that the Spaniard will not be a part of any of the glories that may lie ahead.
Understandably distraught at the news of their hero’s departure, Liverpool supporters were quick to pay heart-felt tributes to the 30-year-old on Twitter, reminiscing about some of the memories he had given them during his time on Merseyside.
https://twitter.com/darnee86/status/729642269473689600
https://twitter.com/LFCMostar/status/729644544304676864
https://twitter.com/Abdul__Mz/status/729642074782478337
Adios Jose Enrique, you won't be missed 😂 Can't remember the last time he had an effect in a game, or even when he played
— RS (@iRyanSinghx) May 9, 2016
Goodbye Jose Enrique. I will miss the selfies, the updated holiday pictures, the Mario Kart game play and Fifa updates
— James (@JamesFranciss_) May 9, 2016
Since the last time he played Jose Enrique has made more money than most of us will ever make in our lives.
— Fields of Anfield Road 🇵🇸 (@FOAnfieldRoad) May 9, 2016
It is unknown how the club will mark Enrique’s time at the club. Â Some are suggesting a statue may be commissioned by the club; others think it’s more appropriate to name the club’s newly refurbished stand in his honour.