Paul Woolston, a goalkeeper at Manchester United, has been forced to retire from football at just 23 years old due to an injury.
The shot-stopper is suffering a hip injury which led to two operations and a lengthy rehabilitation period. He played for United's under-23 side.
"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.
"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.
"Right now, I am fully focused on the next stage of my career. I am ready to use all of my learnings, resilience, drive and determination to make a real success of my life."
De Gea pays tribute to Woolston
Woolston was a highly rated goalkeeper, coming through Newcastle United's academy before joining Manchester United in 2018.
The Red Devils' current No.1 'keeper, David de Gea, says he feels story for Woolston.
"Well, it's always bad when someone has to retire at a young age," said De Gea.
"I've spoken with him, the other day, and said to him that the most important thing is life, more than football, in terms of a proper life.
"It was sad. I have been training with him, when he was fit, and it's very sad news. I wish him all the best. He's a great lad, a great goalkeeper and we all feel really sorry for him.
"I trained with him and he had a very good left foot, I remember, and it's sad for him and for the club. But, as I said before, I was speaking with him and, first of all, it's life and being in good conditions to have a good life."
Wacdelnpz
0
He retired because he know UTD are not going to winn for next 10 years..injury is just a reason
I will send you Barca to answer your question
Kidd69
2
He retired because he know UTD are not going to winn for next 10 years..injury is just a reason
I know you’re man united fan, that’s why you’re here🤪
19121869(deleted)
3
Buffon be like what is happening this day
Chepusta
1
mayb English ain't clear for ue.....he retired cox of an injury not trophies... unless u hve neva played the game....no one wants to retire at a younger age.... learn to b in sme pipo's shoes Dnt just rush to comment cox u a rival
[image]
Had a seizure reading this 😂
amuex1
3
Buffon looking at this post
zudabcemrt
1
mayb English ain't clear for ue.....he retired cox of an injury not trophies... unless u hve neva played the game....no one wants to retire at a younger age.... learn to b in sme pipo's shoes Dnt just rush to comment cox u a rival
Ebubechukwu1996
0
he shoulder have ▶️ played football at all
afiqhijazi
0
He retired because he know UTD are not going to winn for next 10 years..injury is just a reason
bro injury is not a joke thing to do
Hanemtu
1
He retired because he know UTD are not going to winn for next 10 years..injury is just a reason