Manchester United's Javier Hernandez hailed Alex Ferguson's impact on football after the manager's last game ended in a 5-5 draw with West Brom.
Ferguson received a guard of honour before Sunday's pulsating clash at the Hawthorns, which finished all square as a Romelu Lukaku hat-trick inspired Steve Clarke's men to a remarkable fightback, the hosts coming back from four goals down to take a point.
Despite that disappointment, Hernandez was eager to praise the departing Ferguson for the influence he has had on his career and the sport as a whole.
He told the club's official website: "The impact he has had on me is massive. He gave me this big chance to play at the biggest club in the world. He has taught me a lot and I only have thankful words for him.
"It (Ferguson's retirement) is not only a loss for the British fans but he has changed football across the world. He has been here for 26 years and made the impossible dream come true."
Hernandez's 63rd-minute goal was his 50th of his United career and the last of Ferguson's tenure but, although the Mexican was pleased to reach such a milestone, he insisted winning trophies is far more important than any individual success he may achieve.
He added: "I'm very pleased to have 50 goals but the most important thing is I have won two league titles in three years and played in the Champions League final.
"Like I always say the most important thing is the team and to help the team win trophies."
