Wrexham defender Ben Tozer has posted an emotional message following confirmation of his release by the club – and Ben Foster is among his current and former team-mates to have responded.
The 34-year-old was one of eight players set for release as part of Wrexham’s retained list, which was announced by the club on Friday morning.
Goalkeeper Rob Lainton and club captain Luke Young will also leave the club at the end of their contracts, with Aaron Hayden, Callum McFadzean and Jordan Tunnicliffe the three other first team players now looking for new clubs.
Finally, youngsters Owen Cushion and Dan Davies – both currently on loan at Colwyn Bay – will also depart at the end of their deals next month.
The retained list was announced as Wrexham players celebrated promotion to League One in Las Vegas.
Tozer was one of the players to have played a considerable role in that feat, although lost his place in the team in February and did not start another game until the end of the season.
His arrival at Wrexham in 2021, from recently-crowned League Two champions Cheltenham for £200,000 – was the first indication that new co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney meant business.
Tozer had been crowned Cheltenham’s Players’ Player of the Year in two consecutive seasons, and his performances helped Wrexham climb their way up the leagues.
Following the announcement of his release, Tozer took to social media to thank the club, team-mates, supporters and the ownership.
He wrote: “Making the move to Wrexham has been the best move of my life. My family have been so welcomed – they’re Wrexham fans for life.
“The club is on an incredible journey, with the best owners and staff, working together driving the club forward.
“Second, first, second – record breakers, back to back promotions. Safe to say, it couldn’t have gone much better than that!
“To have captained the club, along with Youngy, has been a pleasure.
“From myself and my family; to everyone at the club and the Wrexham fans (worldwide) that have supported us – thank you.”
In response to Tozer’s post, former Wrexham team-mate Ben Foster simply wrote: “Love ya Toze.”
And Wrexham chief executive Humphrey Ker added: “What a man. Thank you for everything, Benny. Love you, pal.”
And popular social media star Bootlegger wrote: “You’ve been some boy and will always be remembered fondly, best of luck to yourself and family in future – will never forget our knees up after promotion.”
