Wrexham stars James McClean and Steven Fletcher have led the tributes for goalkeeper Mark Howard, who has penned an emotional farewell post.
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Wrexham star announces club exitThanks owners Reynolds & McElhenneyMcClean & Fletcher lead tributesFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
After three years at the Red Dragons, veteran stopper Howard appears to have announced that his time with the club has ended. The 38-year-old played his part in the Welsh side rising from the National League to the Championship in three short seasons, and now he has reflected on that "incredible journey". The ex-Sheffield United man also thanked co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney for everything they have done for him.
AdvertisementWHAT HOWARD SAID
He wrote in an Instagram post: "From the moment I pulled on the Wrexham shirt, I have tried to bring professionalism, passion, and personality to the club. As I reflect on what an incredible journey it’s been, I consider myself fortunate to have shared a dressing room with the best teammates. Everyday I have left with a smile on my face wanting to come back and do it all over again. Love you boys. Being able to say I’m the only goalkeeper ever to do the 3peat. Back2Back2Back. I say tongue in cheek. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here. Working alongside some of the most amazing staff on and off the pitch, giving me the encouragement to do more, I cannot thank you enough. The connection with the fans was tough at times but now I feel part of the family, I would like to think you’ve all grown to love me. At this stage I still feel like I have more football in me, so it’s not retirement yet, I still want to dive around while my body lets me. Finally a huge thank you to these two amazing people. @robmcelhenney @vancityreynolds Diolch (thank you)."
WREXHAM STARS PRAISE 'CHOMP'
Winger McClean wrote on Howard's Instagram post: "ChompRex, it's been an absolute pleasure to share a dressing room with you mate, some man for one."
Striker Fletcher wrote in an Instagram story: "Chompy, what a fella. Friend for life, big man," followed by a love heart and two dinosaur emojis.
Midfielder Elliot Lee commented: "The oldest goalkeeper there ever was. I will miss you, old man."
Forward Ollie Palmer put: "What a legend… absolute GOAT. Love you man. B2B2B2," and defender Max Cleworth added: "An absolute legend Chomper, thanks for everything mate."
Getty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Howard has carved a unique place in history as one of the few players who have secured three straight promotions in the English Football League. While he was mostly a backup keeper, bar in his first season in the National League, the former Bolton Wanderers man has played his part in where they are now and is a popular figure at the club – but he is not ready to retire yet.
