Back injury forces Robinson to call time early on career
FORMER England and Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson has retired due to a back injury.
The Beverley-born 37-year-old made 375 Premier League appearances in a career that began at Elland Road as one of several hugely promising players to emerge from the club’s Academy.
Part of the side that lifted the FA Youth Cup in 1997, Robinson was understudy to Nigel Martyn for several years before becoming the club’s first choice ‘keeper under Terry Venables.
He netted a dramatic equaliser in a League Cup tie against Swindon Town but the highlight of his time at Leeds was a quite stunning performance against Barcelona in the Champions League. Robinson pulled off a string of stunning saves to earn United a 1-1 draw, Rivaldo finally breaking his one-man resistance in the 94th minute.
Following Leeds’ relegation in 2004, Robinson went on to play for Tottenham Hotspur, Blackburn Rovers and Burnley. He played 41 times for England.
Explaining his decision to retire, Robinson said: “Unfortunately, my back problem returned towards the end of last season and has prevented me being ready for the start of the new season.
“I have been very fortunate to play the game I love for so many years and make it my career. I intend to take a short time out to spend time with my family and explore the different options available to me. I have been very lucky to play for four very special football clubs and my country.”
Meanwhile, have taken former Bradford City goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin on trial as Eldin Jakupovic edges closer to joining Leicester City. The 29-year-old, released by Burton Albion during the summer, flew out to Portugal over the weekend to join up with the Tigers squad.
Ahmed Elmohamady is today expected to complete a £1m move to Aston villa after being given permission to leave Hull’s training camp in Portugal. MIDDLESBROUGH last night announced a club-record deal, a reported £15m, to sign Britt Assombalonga from Nottingham Forest.
The 24-year-old striker has signed for head coach Garry Monk’s Championship side despite an injury-hit three years at the City Ground.
Assombalonga is a proven goalscorer in the Championship, having netted 30 times in 47 league starts since signing for £5.5m in 2014.
However, persistent injuries have held back his progress, with a serious knee problem ruling him out for much of the 201516 season, but he signed a new five-year deal last summer after proving his fitness.
Boro have been looking to strengthen their attacking options after managing just 27 goals in the Premier League last season and claim they beat off competition from top-tier clubs to sign the striker.
Assombalonga told the club’s website: “I can’t wait to meet the manager and get ready for next season. There’s a good feeling around the place. From the minute I walked in it felt right.”
He added: “I want to thank the Forest fans for being behind me, especially after my injury.
“They gave me a chance in the Championship and I want to say thanks to them and wish them all the best for the season.”
A Forest spokesman said on the club’s website: “Middlesbrough outbid various other clubs to sign Britt Assombalonga.
“As a club we felt that since the fee agreed met the buyout clause in his contract and he wanted to move it would be wrong to stand in his way.”
West Ham played out a goalless draw against Sturm Graz II in Austria, where they are expected to be joined by England goalkeeper Joe Hart as he completes a loan move from Manchester City. Hart is said to be close to committing to a season-long loan in London.