Preston North End goalkeeper Declan Rudd has decided to call time on his career, with Andrew Lonergan sending a message of support to his fellow stopper.
Rudd decided to hang up his gloves a few days ago, walking away from the game at the age of just 31.
A knee injury suffered in January 2021 was the beginning of the end for Rudd, who has suffered blows since then.
From a concussion against Hull City on the first day of the season to another knee surgery in November, Rudd has had rotten luck.
Having failed to appear in a game for Preston since the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool in October, Rudd has now decided to call it a day.
Rudd’s connection to Preston started back in 2013, joining on loan from Norwich City under Graham Westley.
Rudd returned for the 2013-14 season under Simon Grayson, helping Preston reach the playoffs only to lose out to Rotherham United.
North End couldn’t secure Rudd permanently until 2017, signing him from Norwich in one of Grayson’s final moves before leaving for Sunderland.
Rudd made almost 200 appearances for Preston across his loan and permanent stays, with his unfortunate retirement touching the hearts of many on Instagram.
Andrew Lonergan was one of those to send Rudd a heartfelt message as the famous goalkeepers’ union was on display.
Lonergan, a former Preston stopper himself, is still going strong at 38 and is currently with Premier League side Everton.
Having seen one of his fellow stoppers end his career – especially with a club so close to Lonergan’s heart – the veteran wished Rudd well.
Lonergan stated ‘congrats on a top career mate. Such a shame it’s ended early but good luck in whatever’s next’.
Hopefully Rudd can find happiness in his next chapter, and we would hope that Preston will back him all the way if he wants to pursue coaching badges.