Pouton forced to retire

Last updated : 01 February 2007 By Simon Head

Pouton: injuries cut short his Gills career

The all-action midfielder signed from Grimsby with a big reputation as a combative central midfielder, but sadly injuries prevented him from establishing himself as a consistent presence in the side.

When he was fit, however, his qualities shone through, as his gritty displays helped the Gills to many positive results during his career at Priestfield.

But with the 29-year-old's recurring knee injury problems getting the better of him, Pouton was advised by specialists to hang up his boots - a decision that has left many fans - and manager Ronnie Jepson - wishing things had worked out better for the amiable Geordie.

"That is the worst news possible and it is a very sad day", said Jepson.

"At such an early age, only 29 and have to retire from professional football, I'm gutted for him. If he was in his 30s, I would understand it. It has been frustrating for me, and it must have been for him, as everyone knows the ability that Alan Pouton has got. If 'Pouts' is fit, he could easily be playing a division above.

"One or two people have asked me this season about why isn't Pouts playing or being brought on? Now Alan Pouton has played for me half-fit at times. You saw what he done at Crewe and a lot of players nowadays, they wouldn't. They would be sat on that treatment table picking up their wages, which I think people have seen happening once or twice at this club in the past. If you had seen the hard work he does behind the scenes with training and strengthening, I can say that now as I'm not giving the opposition any information about having a half-fit player in the team or on the bench.

"I have to give Pouts full credit for what he has done for me. When he has been out on the field of play or on the bench, he has been fantastic. It has been a bit frustrating at times but down the training ground and around the place, he has conducted himself in the right manner. All credit to him but it is just so sad when you get the news from the surgeon that you will have to retire because of a knee injury. He isn't far off full-fitness but it is just maintaining that fitness on the training ground and during matches. Sadly, his knee won't sustain that and he doesn't want to end up in a wheelchair so he has taken the surgeon's advice. It is a sad time for everybody, especially when it happens at 29 years-old. I would like to publicly thank him for everything on the pitch and the way he has helped me off it. He is a character and has always done everything in the right positive manner."

Here on Gills365, many of us have made no secret of admiration of Alan Pouton's attitude and ability. Sadly, injury has called a premature end to his career - and we wish him all the very best in whatever he chooses to do next.