England footballer announces retirement with immediate effect just 4 games into the season

Ben Foster announces his retirement after four games for Wrexham. Four games into Wrexham’s League Two season, Ben Foster has declared his retirement from professional football.

When he left Watford last summer, the goalkeeper put his gloves away, but he was persuaded to come out of retirement in March to help Wrexham secure their eventual return to League Two.

Foster started the season as Wrexham’s starter, but after allowing 13 goals in four games, he has claimed he no longer feels capable of performing at a high enough level to continue playing.

“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,” Foster said in a statement.

“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.”

Manager Phil Parkinson added: “Ben has been the model professional while at Wrexham and has done everything we have asked of him. It takes a big person to make the decision he has and one who really understands this Football Club, with the timing of his decision.

“I am sure I speak for everyone, when thanking him for his contribution that went far beyond that one magnificent penalty save against Notts County to help us gain promotion last season. Wrexham AFC was a better place for having Ben Foster around the Club.”

Foster leaves Wrexham having made 12 appearances across the National League and League Two, famously helping the Red Dragons back to the Football League last season.