Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Paul Woolston has announced his retirement from football, aged just 23. The North Shields born shot-stopper moved to fellow Premier League club Manchester United back in 2018 but has since struggling with lengthy injuries to his hip.
Having featured only 24 times in competitions such as the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy, Woolston was a highly rated goalkeeper who moved through Newcastle's academy system following his move from Sunderland aged 10.
The 23-year-old was the club’s third-choice keeper for the 2016/17 Championship-winning season and also featured for his country at Under 18 level too. But with persistent injuries halting his career within the game, Woolston has taken the difficult decision to hang up his boots.
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“To have to retire at just 23 has been really tough to come to terms with but I feel a lot more positive now,” said Woolston, via ManUtd.com earlier today.
“I am really proud of everything that I have achieved, many people dream of playing football at this level. Of course, I would have loved to have gone on further but it has been an absolute honour to represent Manchester United during my time here.
“The support of my family, friends, team-mates, coaches, the medical staff and entire Manchester United Academy has been phenomenal. Everyone has played a major part in my journey by keeping my spirits up, allowing me to reflect positively on my playing experiences and begin to look to the future.''
The Reds have insisted there is a proper and 'robust' system in place to support the former Magpies keeper through the next stage of his life, with his priority now switching to coaching, remaining with Manchester United for the time being.
“Paul has maximised every opportunity presented to him along his football journey. He has created wonderful memories and developed skills and relationships that will stay with him for the rest of his life,” said Nick Cox, head of the Red Devils Academy.
