Villa legend and fan-favorite Olof Mellborg retires

It seems as if this entire summer has been about Ron Vlaar. Aston Villa fans have been worried if he'll leave and fans of other clubs have been hoping he does. But for as well-liked as Vlaar is, there is another Villa centre back on the minds of Villa fans today.

Club legend and always-Villan Olof Mellberg has announced his retirement from football. This ends the long and distinguished career of the man who Zlatan Ibrahimovic called "the best Swedish defender of all times." But for Villa fans it's the end of line for one of our heroes.

Mellberg joined Villa in 2001 and was soon given captaincy of the club. Between his arrival then and his departure in 2008, he made 260 appearances with Aston Villa. In that time, too, he became beloved of Villa fans for his incredible work rate and his commitment to the club.

But for many, his most endearing quality was the fact that he seemed like one of us. Like us, he seemed to love Villa. And like us, he hated Birmingham City. What more could we ask for?

We wish him the best in retirement. Thanks for all the fun we had watching you, and thanks for everything you've done.

And for you reading, let us know: what's your favorite memory of Olof?