Wrexham goalkeeper Foster announces shock retirement

Wrexham goalkeeper Ben Foster has announced his retirement just four games into the League Two season.

The former Manchester United stopper shipped five goals at home to Swindon in a dramatic 5-5 draw last Saturday, conceding 13 times in total this campaign.

Foster, 40, came out of retirement last term to sign a short-term deal with the Welsh outfit and helped guide the Hollywood-owned side back into the Football League.

He then decided to stay on for one more season as Wrexham's No1 but has now cut ties completely with the Red Dragons.

After announcing the decision on Wrexham's website, Foster said: "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."

Manager Phil Parkinson paid tribute to the contributions made by the former West Brom and Watford custodian, saying: "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 was a better place for having Ben Foster around the club."

Foster has enjoyed a long and successful career at the top level of football and earned eight caps for England.

He made 390 appearances in the Premier League, keeping 92 clean sheets and winning the EFL Cup three times.

Wrexham — co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney — lie 15th in the League Two table and will now be on the hunt for a new man between the sticks ahead of Saturday's trip to Barrow.