Ben Foster’s shock decision to retire is likely to force Wrexham into overdrive to find a new goalkeeper in the remaining week of the transfer window.
Former England goalkeeper Foster announced he was quitting – for the second time – after conceding five goals in the astonishing 5-5 draw with Swindon last weekend.
That made 13 goals put past him in four games – enough to convince 40-year-old Foster it was time to go.
So, who will Wrexham turn to before their next game at Barrow on Saturday, where DragonBet make them 23/20 favourites to win, with Barrow at 19/10 and the draw priced at 23/10?
Mark Howard – who started 32 League matches last season in the National League before Foster’s arrival – is set to be back between the sticks.
But with Rob Lainton still on the long-term injury list, and 23-year-old Luke McNicholas only having been signed on a short-term contract until January, boss Phil Parkinson is likely to bring in a new keeper.
“We are always looking at the market,” says Parkinson.
“Mark had a good pre-season. He was excellent against Wigan, I thought he was really accomplished that night, as you’d expect from a goalkeeper of his calibre.
“He had a slight dip in form at one stage but Mark contributed fully to the team’s success.”
So, who might Wrexham bring in to plug the gap left by Foster?
Andy Fisher seems to have fallen out of favour at Swansea City, following his £500,000 move from MK Dons 18 months ago.
Fisher has not played a game yet this season and might welcome a move in order to revive the 25-year-old’s career.
Ben Amos has a wealth of experience, including playing in over 280 Football League games for clubs such as Bolton, Cardiff City, Charlton and Wigan, but has lately lost his place at the Latics.
The 33-year-old would bring plenty of experience and would be available on a free transfer as he is currently out of contract.
Ben Hamer left Swansea City a year ago for Watford but has only played one game for them in the Championship and one in the League Cup, so may be open to a move.
The 35-year-old built his reputation at Charlton and has made over 350 Football League appearances.
Jed Steer is available immediately after being released by Aston Villa in June following a decade with the club.
The 33-year-old had loan spells at five different clubs – including at Luton Town last year where he suffered an Achilles tendon injury – but was a mainstay for Villa during their promotion-winning season from the Championship in 2019.
Foster played a key part as Wrexham won promotion back to the Football League last season and signed a one-year extension only last June.
But after deciding to retire, he said: “My performances this season haven’t reached the level I demand of myself.
“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 (transfer) window closes.
“Wrexham will always have a special place in my heart.”
