THE END of a Hull City era will come to pass this summer. In releasing Andy Dawson after 10 years at the KC Stadium, the last remaining link to the Tigers' famous 2008 Wembley promotion is about to be cut loose.
A decade in East Yorkshire saw Dawson make 317 City appearances and land four promotions.
The veteran's achievements with the Tigers may never be surpassed and, according to Richard Garcia, an unrivalled place in the club's history has been secured.
"I don't think words can describe what he's put into the club," said Garcia, following news of Dawson's exit last week.
"Daws is Daws, what you see is what you get. He's such a nice guy and leads his life like that. People will call him the ultimate professional but that just comes naturally to him.
"The majority of his career has gone into helping Hull City climb up through all the divisions of English football and the supporters love him for that.
"It's not just the length of service, either, he's been one of the most consistent players you could wish for throughout his time there.
"To see him enjoying his testimonial year has been fantastic because there's not many players manage that in the modern game. He certainly deserves it after giving up such a big chunk of his career."
Dawson was a constant for Garcia during five years at the KC Stadium.
On his debut, a 3-2 loss to Plymouth in August 2007, the left-back was there, while in his final City appearance, in the 2-1 loss at West Ham United 13 months ago, Dawson was still there.
In between there was promotion together at Wembley in the Championship play-off final, not to mention two years on City's last Premier League adventure.
Garcia has kept up to speed with Dawson's testimonial year, even sending a video message for the Wembley reunion in March, and believes his former team-mate can follow his lead with a fresh challenge.
"It's sad to see him going now but I'm sure there will be opportunities for him somewhere else," he added.
"That's something that has to happen in football, no matter what level you're at.
"The club is back to where it wants to be and needs to look forward, but Daws will always be remembered."
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