Ben Foster opens up on the moment that led to his retirement during Wrexham stint

Ben Foster has revealed the real reason why he retired from professional football after a short spell at Wrexham.

Foster surprisingly announced his decision to retire after Wrexham's 5-5 draw at home to Swindon last month.

The 38-year-old addressed his decision in a brief statement on Wrexham's website following the announcement.

But, on his podcast 'Fozcast', the former Manchester United and England goalkeeper has now opened on the real reasons behind his call - including the moment he knew he had to retire.

You can watch the full clip of the interview below.

He explained: "The game against Swindon - the guy got it out of his feet and took a shot from about 22 yards.

"He bent it round into the corner. As he got the ball out of his feet, normally I know that he's putting it in my corner, to my right hand side. I know it. I can read it like a book.

"But I couldn't even read it like a book. Honestly, it's mad, mate. I can't explain it to you.

"I didn't have that nous, it had gone a bit. I couldn't read the fact that, I knew he was putting it in the corner, but I didn't get the little steps in to make sure I knew that I could save it.

"I just did it, I wouldn't even have to think about doing it before. Honestly, I wouldn't. I'd just do it.

"I'd take the little steps to know that I've covered it off, so that even if he puts it on the post and in, I'd still be able to save it. I know I'd be able to save it."

Wrexham, then a National League side, managed to convince the 38-year-old to come out of retirement in March, with Foster playing a key part in their promotion back to the Football League.

He pulled off a superb penalty save in the crunch fixture against Notts County, with Wrexham winning the National League and earning automatic promotion at the Magpies' expense.

Foster then signed a new one-year deal ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, and retained his place as the Red Dragons' number one shot-stopper.

But he made just five appearances before deciding to call it a day in professional football for the second time.

It was Dan Kemp's curling strike for Swindon that fits the description of the goal that caused Foster to make his decision - a decision which even surprised manager Phil Parkinson.

Topics: Wrexham, Ben Foster, League Two, Manchester United

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.