Words John Edwards | Picture Jonathan Moore

MATT Gould is reluctantly bidding farewell to Altrincham after accepting the opportunity of first-team football at Vanarama National League South champions Yeovil Town.

The ever-popular 30-year old was all set to embark on a fifth season as goalkeeper/coach with Alty when a call came out of the blue from Yeovil boss Mark Cooper, offering him the chance to bolster the Glovers' defence for their return to the National League.

With the proposition having the extra pull of moving to an area his family are so familiar with, it was too good to turn down, and Matt is heading to the West Country with the best wishes of everyone connected with Altrincham Football Club.

"It’s time for a new chapter and to say a massive thank you to everyone Altrincham," said Matt, who joined Alty from Spennymoor Town in August, 2020. "There are so many people at the club I could mention, from the fans, the staff and the Academy, to the players and the volunteers.

"A couple or so highlights for me are as follows. Firstly, top gaffer. What a man, he’s helped me so much in the last four years, and I can’t thank him enough for the trust he put in me.

"Secondly, fantastic keepers. Not always playing isn’t easy but when you have Tony Thompson getting Players' Player of the Year and Ethan Ross getting the fans' version, as a coach, it makes you proud. Two top lads.

"Third would be international call-ups during my time here, and incredible trips, and fourth would be the four years of playing for a fantastic football club - I wish you all the best in the future years."

The top gaffer Matt referred to, Phil Parkinson, was full of praise for a player and personality who has made a lasting impression on everyone at The J.Davidson Stadium.

"Matt has given fantastic service to myself and the club," said Phil. "A playing opportunity has crossed his path that we didn't see coming. He has proved to be good enough to play at this level, and he is still fiercely competitive and ambitious, so, much as I am sorry to lose him, I couldn't stand in his way.

"His family reside in that part of the country, and it is a perfect move for him at this point in his career. I wish him nothing but success, and he will always be welcome at Alty. Thanks for all your hard work, Matt, and all the very best."

Everyone at Alty would echo those sentiments, Matt - you will be missed!