Bristol City's Josh Brownhill admits he was surprised that Marlon Pack decided to leave Ashton Gate for rivals Cardiff City on deadline day.
Pack was a Robins stalwart, having played in the heart of midfield there for six years and even donning the captain's armband.
But once Neil Warnock learned the player was open to a move across the Severn Bridge, the Bluebirds boss leapt at the chance to sign him.
He has certainly endeared himself to City fans, WalesOnline columnist Nathan Blake believes he has been the best summer acquisition by far , but it has had an adverse affect at Bristol.
Brownhill revealed he was incredibly close to Pack, which made it more of a shock to him when the move transpired.
"I was very close friends with Marlon and I felt when he went it was a big loss as he's a good player," Brownhill, who took the captain's arm band after Pack's exit, told BBC Radio Bristol.
"For me I was quite surprised but it's Marlon's decision and, what goes on behind the doors, it's up to him.
"He's a good player, last season he was excellent and the year before, and I think he's been a big role model for me, being at the club since the age of 20.
"He was captain for a number of games, so I've learned a lot from him.
"I feel like we've missed Marlon a lot but I feel like we've replaced very well."
Pack has filled a similar void in the Cardiff City midfield following the departure of Aron Gunnarsson in the summer, with Warnock having made that comparison on more than one occasion.
And City fans will hope that Pack, still just 28, will have just as successful a career in the Welsh capital as Gunnarsson did during his eight-year stay.
