Mark Goodlad is forced to retire
Popular goalkeeper Mark Goodlad has sadly been forced to retire from the game through injury.
The 28-year-old has been unable to fully recover from a serious Achilles tendon problem he sustained in a game at Bristol City in December 2006.
Goodlad was told by a specialist that he risked permanent disability if he continued to play.
“I have spoken to people close to me and ultimately I have had to make a hard decision. But I think it is for the best,” Goodlad told Port Vale’s website.
Goodlad made 247 appearances for the club, won the Football League Trophy in 2001 and was named Player of the Year in 2002.