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Former Man Utd goalkeeper Ben Foster retires from football

Veteran goalkeeper Ben Foster has retired from professional football, leaving Wrexham just four games into the League Two season. 

The 40-year-old shot-stopper made the headlines when he returned from retirement last season to aid Wrexham in their triumphant march back to the Football League.

Foster’s comeback story was fuelled by the allure of Hollywood ownership, with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney co-owning the Welsh club. 

Their charm persuaded Foster to resume his career, and he contributed to their promotion. 

Following that successful season, Foster continued his stay as Wrexham’s first-choice goalkeeper, but that decision has been abruptly reversed.

The decision comes on the heels of a challenging start to the League Two campaign, with Foster conceding 13 goals in just four games, including five against Swindon in their recent fixture. 

Despite his rocky start this season, Foster’s legacy remains noteworthy, with a remarkable record of 1,248 saves – the most in Premier League history. 

His 390 appearances in the top flight, across stints at Manchester United, West Bromwich Albion, Watford, and Birmingham City, make him the 10th most capped goalkeeper in the Premier League.

Upon his second retirement, Foster said (via Wrexham’s official website): “The honest truth is that my performances this season haven’t reached the level I demand of myself, and I feel that now is the right time to retire.

“At the forefront of my mind when making this decision was not only what was best for me but also the club, and making the decision now gives the club every opportunity to assess their options before the window closes.

“Wrexham will always have a special place in my heart.”

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson described Foster as a model professional and thanked him for contributing to their cause.

“Wrexham was a better place for having Ben Foster around the club,” he said.

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