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#2 Brighton's fantastic model pro Bruno retiring, aged 38
I remember watching Bruno live at Vicarage Road last season in Brighton's third Premier League game, having been promoted from the Championship that summer. That day, I was in disbelief when checking how experienced the Seagulls' backline was and that the Spanish full-back was 36-year-old at the time. I thought it was an error!
He's been so good for them and at 38, announced he'd be retiring from professional football once this season was complete. That he's managed to come this far in part of a 20-year journey, is awe-inspiring.
The oldest outfield player (38 years, seven months) to feature in England's top-flight this term, it's testament to his character and willpower that despite his age, he hasn't deteriorated like many players - especially defenders - often do when failing to deal with the physical rigours of weekly Premier League football.
Despite their 4-1 defeat on this occasion, he didn't defend any worse than his teammates, and instead was solid as ever before being replaced to a standing ovation and warm applause from everyone inside the Amex. With 75% pass accuracy, one aerial duel won, two tackles, four clearances and 4/4 duels complete, he was the hosts' only defender to complete a successful tackle on a busy afternoon against the champions.
He did alright and as usual, proven a solid, reliable performer under Chris Hughton. It's an incredible achievement but one that will gone under-the-radar, after seven years and 235 appearances on the south Coast with Brighton.
He has said playing for them has "changed his life" and having helped them secure promotion into the division, he won a place in the Championship's Team of the Year in consecutive seasons before their return to top-flight football. Getting a huge reception near the end is nothing less than he deserves, so congratulations to Bruno - I wish you a happy retirement!
