I'm sorry he's retiring in the sense that he's a lifelong Blue, who's steeped in the club and fully understands what it's about. Frankly, the more such people we have in and around the club as it expands globally, the better, and the loss of one is a blow.
But how can we begrudge him the opportunity to enjoy a well-earned retirement after the service he's given? He was a fine player for us, and might have achieved much more had his career not been regrettably cut short. Since he stopped playing, he's worked magnificently, embodying everything we should want our club to be about.
Thanks for everything, Alex. Don't be a stranger, but make sure you enjoy all the opportunities that retirement will offer you.