I’ve been trying to come up with the words to say goodbye to our now-former skipper. I’m going to level with you - I’ve got nothing.

This isn’t an expression of apathy. I love Alan Bennett. He was instrumental in helping the Dons avoid the drop.

He’s been a sure and steady presence in the dressing room. He’s a consummate gentleman.

That he was able to imprint himself so firmly on a club within a span of (nearly exactly) two years speaks to how special he is.

So when I say I don’t have anything to say, it’s not because I care too little.

Some weeks ago I talked about AFC Wimbledon and the idea of home. I said that AFC Wimbledon is a club that people call home. Even long after they’ve left.

Of course this isn’t true for everyone. It’s not true for Alan Bennett. He had a home already. And now he’s going back.

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I can’t fault him, of course. He wasn’t getting into the team. Age had started to catch up to him. He’s eager to start laying the groundwork for his next career.

And, of course, Cork City is home.

I can’t begrudge him for leaving. He’s served the club well during his time here. He helped keep the team together in the midst of roiling tides. He’s doing what’s best for him and his family.

Still.

At this point in my life I really should be better about my favorite players moving on. It’s a part of football. And life. People move on.

They have dreams, their own ideas of bigger and better things, and sometimes it just doesn’t include you.

But I’m not. I hate saying goodbye.

So instead: Thanks, Alan. For everything.