Newcastle United goalkeeping coach Simon Smith has paid tribute to Paul Woolston after the former Magpies youngster was forced to curtail his career. The North Shields native arrived at St James’ Park nine years ago after leaving Sunderland, but he left to join Manchester United in 2018.
An unspecified injury forced Woolston to go under the knife twice, but Manchester Evening News reported last year that the young keeper was struggling with a serious hip problem. His finest hour on Tyneside came four years ago when Newcastle U23s defeated Sunderland U23s on penalties at the Stadium of Light, with Woolston converting from the spot.
First-team goalkeeper coach Smith hailed the 23-year-old’s attitude in an emotional farewell post. He tweeted: "So, so sad to hear that Paul Woolston has had to retire from football at the tender age of 23.
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"I had the pleasure of working with Paul at both international and club level. Paul was an integral part of the senior GK group and travelled as a third choice during his time @NUFC before moving on to Manchester United. Great attitude and great work ethic! Onward and upward young man, you have so much more to give and to achieve!"
Woolston appeared unfazed by the setback as he looks ahead to a ‘new chapter’ in his life without football. He wrote: “Never thought I would have to write this at 23, but this chapter has had to come to an end. I can look back proudly on what I’ve achieved in my career, but I am excited about what’s in store for the future. A new chapter awaits.”
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