It is sad news for the Wrexham fan club once again. The beloved former England and Manchester United goalkeeper, Ben Foster, who had signed a one-year contract extension with Wrexham in June, has now bid his farewell to the team. Interestingly, this retirement comes just ten weeks into his renewed contract with Wrexham AFC. His announcement, however, does not surprise many. Along with fans, co-owner of the team, Ryan Reynolds, too, quite knew how much of an asset he was to the club. 

As Foster had previously mentioned, he would only continue playing if he felt content with his performance. Since it was clearly not the case, Reynolds too paid homage to Foster and his decisions in a sweet message. 

The owner of Wrexham bids the goalkeeper a last goodbye 

The co-owners of Wrexham expressed gratitude along with fans for the goalkeeper Ben Foster’s contributions to the team. “I love this guy,” he said, gushing about how he is going to treasure their memories together lifelong. Wrexham fans will always remember Foster for a stunning penalty save deep in time added on against last season’s fierce rivals Notts County. His iconic key win on their march led them to seal automatic promotion. 

The win had won him praise from all quarters, including club owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.The 40-year-old made this decision after a string of underwhelming performances for the League Two club. The goalkeeper has admitted that he is unsatisfied with his current form and feels like he is letting down the team and the fans. This acted as the prime reason for him to step down.

Foster had previously retired from football in September 2022, after turning down a contract offer from Newcastle United. He then came out of retirement in March 2023 to sign a short-term contract with Wrexham. He made 12 appearances for Wrexham before announcing his retirement again on August 2, 2023.

Additionally, Ben Foster’s announcement comes at a crucial time. Wrexham AFC is looking to brush with history and rise in the ongoing EFL league.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s Wrexham to feel the heat of Ben Foster exit this EFL?

Ben Foster’s departure from Wrexham is undeniably a blow for the club. However, despite his absence, Wrexham has demonstrated its ability to adapt and thrive. The team recently secured their first win in about a decade in the EFL. Additionally, they have secured the services of Matt Ingram, a goalkeeper from QPR, who made an impressive debut against Walsall.

Additionally, Wrexham boasts a squad featuring top players. Among them, Ollie Palmer, Will Boyle, Jake Bickerstaff, and Elliot Lee–all of whom have contributed goals in the EFL Cup. Furthermore, their ownership duo, consisting of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has garnered increased attention and support. Naturally, they will face challenges and setbacks along their journey; however, they possess both quality and resilience to overcome any obstacles that come their way.

What do you think of Ben Foster’s retirement? Do you think it will hurt Wrexham’s plans for winning the EFL? Let us know in the comments below.