Wrexham came out with a statement that informed about the curtain fall on Ben Foster’s illustrious journey at Wrexham Association Football Club. The Former England star has declared his retirement at the age of 40.
Ryan Reynolds, one of the club’s co-owners, extended his gratitude to the former England international as he bid farewell to the sport, Via X (Formerly known as Twitter). Reynolds conveyed, “He built memories I’ll never let go of for as long as I live. I love this guy. Thank you for everything, Ben.”
The official statement released by Wrexham elucidated the circumstances of Foster’s retirement. Post Wrexham’s clash against Swindon Town, the veteran goalkeeper engaged in a conversation with Manager Phil Parkinson, revealing his intention to step away from the sport.
He built memories I’ll never let go of for as long as I live. I love this guy. Thank you for everything, Ben. https://t.co/8h6mAVeuqu
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) August 21, 2023
Notably, Ben Foster’s return to Wrexham marked a reunion after 18 years since his initial tenure with the club in 2005. Emerging from his first retirement in 2022, Foster rejoined Wrexham on a free transfer, contributing to the club’s aspirations of securing the National League title.
Wrexham encountered a goalkeeper conundrum prior to Foster’s arrival. The primary goalkeeper, Rob Lainton, suffered a knee injury sidelining him for six weeks, creating a pressing need for reinforcement which Foster fulfilled.
Ben Foster’s professional journey began at Stoke City, characterized by a series of loan spells, including a brief episode at Wrexham. His trajectory ultimately led him to Manchester United in 2005 after circumventing senior appearances with Stoke City.
The reason behind Ben Foster’s retirement
In a club statement, Ben Foster candidly acknowledged the standard of his performances this season, which he perceives was falling short of his own exacting standards. His decision to retire now is grounded in the realization that this juncture aligns with what he deems optimal for both himself and the club.
Expressing his rationale, Foster emphasized his concern for the club’s interests alongside his own, ensuring the timing of his retirement provides ample room for the club to evaluate their alternatives prior to the transfer window closing.
Wrexham’s early season experiences have been marked by defensive instability, conceding 13 goals in mere four matches. Foster, assuming responsibility, candidly attributes the shortcomings to his own performance not meeting the desired benchmark.
Ben Foster comes out of retirement and joins National League leaders Wrexham until end of the season 🚴🏻♂️🧤 #transfers
“If you’d told me 18 years ago that I’d have gone on to have the career that I have had, I probably wouldn’t have believed you!”, he said. pic.twitter.com/D6PtkAg8sR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 23, 2023
As Wrexham navigates this transition, attention shifts to the four goalkeepers within the club’s ranks, deliberating over the suitable successor for the Englishman’s role.
Phil Parkinson, the Manager, extends his appreciation for Foster’s profound impact on the club. He underscores Foster’s role that extended well beyond the memorable penalty save against Notts County, which significantly contributed to their promotion last season. In Parkinson’s words, “Wrexham AFC was a better place for having Ben Foster around the Club.”
Ben Foster’s departure from professional soccer encompasses an impressive career tally of 536 appearances, with 390 in the Premier League alone. Undoubtedly, his Premier League titles with Manchester United in 2008 and 2009 serve as the pinnacle of his accomplishments.