Carlos Cuellar's Departure Shows Softer Side to Darren Bent

Last night I came across a photo gallery on the official team site of Carlos Cuellar on his last day at Villa. I'd realized that he was leaving, and I realized that I didn't like it. But when I saw that picture of Carlos, it hit me hard. I can't remember the last time I've liked a player that much. And not just as an athlete, but as a person. Aaron mentioned this in his match preview this weekend, but Cuellar seemed like one of the most genuinely wonderful people around. Not just among athletes, either. He just comes off as an absurdly likeable guy.

After I posted the picture, I noticed a link to Carlos' New Year's greeting from last season. That led me to his blog and eventually his twitter. When I got there, I noticed this, buried amongst the outpouring of support for Carlos:

@Cuellar24 goodbye my friend it was a pleasure playing with you. Can't get my head around you not being here next season #topdefender

— Darren Bent (@DarrenBent) May 13, 2012

Of course, Carlos responded:

@DarrenBent goodbye bro it has been a pleasure too!! Thanks mate I will miss u