DEREK Niven's absence will certainly be felt by his Grimsby Town team-mates next season.
The combative Scot is currently searching for the sixth permanent club of his 13-year professional career after being released by the Mariners earlier this month.
Despite his whole-hearted commitment to the cause, the 29-year-old, who made 34 league appearances this season, came in for criticism from a section of his own fans earlier in the campaign.
But an injury-prompted absence highlighted his value to the side and, ultimately, it came as a surprise to many when his name was among eight out-of-contract players who were let go.
Among those who were shocked by his departure was his midfield partner Craig Disley, who will miss his presence more than most.
Alongside the Falkirk-born battler, Disley enjoyed one of his best seasons to date, and the skipper admits he will miss his pal, both on and off the field.
"It's a strange one with Del," he told the Telegraph.
"If you'd have told me two months back, before he got injured, that he wouldn't be at the club next season, I wouldn't have believed you.
"Del was great for my game. We obviously played together a lot and had a good understanding.
"Without realising it at the time, he helped me so much and you can see that in the number of goals I scored this year."
Disley and Niven started alongside one another on 35 occasions in all competitions this season.
While Niven only found the back of the net twice, his defensive discipline allowed Disley to enjoy one his most prolific seasons to date – scoring nine goals.
And the former Bristol Rovers man added: "I'll miss him, on and off the field, because he's a top lad and I hope he gets himself sorted soon and gets a new club."
"It was a surprise but I trust the gaffers' judgement and I'm sure they'll bring in a more than suitable replacement for him."
