Ben Foster confirms Watford exit with Leeds opportunity arising pending Meslier decision

Ben Foster has released a statement on his future stating that he will be leaving Watford in the upcoming transfer window.

Foster has spent six seasons with the Hornets and has been their number one for the majority of his time there. However, his current contract is due to expire this summer and he has revealed he will now move on.

He hasn’t, however, announced his retirement, which could mean he is on the lookout for another team.

Watford have yet again been relegated from the Premier League after their promotion last year.

The team are in 19th on a mere 23 points and have conceded a staggering 75 goals throughout the campaign so far. This is largely due to the lacklustre defence in front of the 39-year-old.

Despite being relegated, Foster has been a shining light around the camp and has often produced some top-class saves.

The Hornets have, however, got another top goalkeeper within their ranks in Daniel Bachmann. Bachmann was Austria’s starting goalkeeper during Euro 2020.

He showcased his class on an international level and helped his country to the Round of 16, where they lost against eventual winners Italy.

When available, Foster has pipped Bachmann to the starting position which shows he still has a lot to give. Regardless, the team that benefits from his experience will no longer be Watford.

Foster confirms Watford exit

In a statement released on his Twitter account, Foster has called his time at Watford “a blast.”

“The ups, downs, good, bad & ugly…it’s all part of the journey,” he stated. 

“My time @WatfordFC is up, but a huge thanks for all the support & love I’ve received from fans, players and staff in the 6 years with the club, it’s been a blast!

“Looking forward to what next season will bring.”

Where next for Ben Foster? 

In his statement, the 39-year-old didn’t mention the prospect of retirement. This begs the question, where could Foster go?

Although there are no concrete rumours as of yet, the eight-times England capped keeper is still more than capable of holding his own in the Premier League.

Newly-promoted Bournemouth have reportedly been looking for another keeper to bolster their ranks. Foster could provide some much needed experience in Bournemouth’s back-line and ease the pressure on Mark Travers’ shoulders.

The former under-21 Ireland international managed to keep the most clean sheets in the Championship this season. He has however never experienced the top flight of England’s football. There is a massive step-up required for all players to allow their team to be competitive.

Alternatively, a move to Leeds United could materialise if the Whites are unable to retain Illan Meslier.

The Frenchman remains prone to an error, though at 22, that is to be expected in a young stopper.

Meslier won’t be short of suitors if Leeds go down and Foster could be the ideal candidate to compete with Kristoffer Klaesson for the No 1 shirt.