Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds has paid tribute to club goalkeeper Ben Foster after his shock retirement.

Foster announced on Monday he would be stepping back from professional football after the club drew 5-5 with Swindon Town on Saturday.

It has been a difficult start to the new season in League Two for Foster after he conceded five goals in Wrexham’s opening-day loss to MK Dons.

Reynolds said Foster “built memories I’ll never let go of for as long as I live”.

“I love this guy. Thank you for everything, Ben,” he added.

The ex-Manchester United goalie had walked away from the game last September, but was convinced to end his retirement and sign for Wrexham in March.

The 40-year-old helped the club achieve promotion from the National League to League Two earlier this year.

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The club is now back in the English Football League for the first time in 15 seasons.

It was bought by Hollywood star Reynolds and It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia co-creator Rob McElhenney in November 2020.

The club’s fortunes are the subject of the Disney+ documentary series, Welcome to Wrexham.

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After, Saturday’s game Foster spoke to manager Phil Parkinson and told him of his intention to retire.

He has made 12 appearances since he returned to play for the club on 23 March, after spending a period on loan with the Red Dragons in 2005.

The goalkeeper’s previous clubs include Birmingham City, West Bromwich Albion and Watford.

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Foster said that “now [was] the right time to retire”.

“The honest truth is that my performances this season haven’t reached the level I demand of myself,” he said.

“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.”

Parkinson said Foster’s decision to retire took a “big person” and added the club had been a “better place” for having had him in the team.

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