21 August 2023 , 12:49
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Ryan Reynolds has thanked Ben Foster for giving him 'memories to last a lifetime' after the Wrexham goalkeeper announced his retirement from football.
Foster, 40, came out of retirement towards the end of last season and helped the Dragons spectacularly achieve promotion to League Two, ending their 15-year absence from the EFL. The former England international was then convinced by Reynolds and the club's hierarchy to sign a new one-year contract over the summer and he started the season as Wrexham's first-choice goalkeeper.
But after conceding a whopping 13 goals in just four league games, Foster has admitted that his level of performance is no longer up to scratch and he's decided to hang up his gloves once again. The 40-year-old issued a statement on Monday morning and in response, Wrexham co-owner Reynolds sent a touching message.
"He built memories I'll never let go of for as long as I live," the Canadian actor wrote on social media. "I love this guy. Thank you for everything, Ben."
Foster's announcement came less than 48 hours after Wrexham's dramatic 5-5 draw at home to Swindon, putting them on five points and leaving them 15th in the table. The ex-Manchester United goalkeeper has come under scrutiny for many goals which the Dragons have conceded so far this term, cementing his decision to back into retirement.
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"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, who spent more than a decade in the Premier League with West Brom and Watford, explained.
"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."
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Ben Foster has hung up his gloves (Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)Wrexham's 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."
The club added in their social media post: "All the very best, Ben - thank you very much for your contributions in both spells with the football club, and congratulations on an incredible career."