Spalding United have been rocked by the devastating news that long-serving winger Jamie Thurlbourne has been forced to retire at the age of just 27.
Ex-King’s Lynn Town ace Thurlbourne, who has been a regular fixture in the Tulips’ side over the past three seasons, has been advised to stop all sport after a gutting ankle scan revealed extensive damage.
Spalding supremo Rayment admits he feels a bit numb after hearing the news. He’s always rated Thurlbourne’s left foot as one of the best in non-league, while also describing him as a player that could score goals “worth the entry fee”.
“Jamie has been troubled by his ankle for a while now,” said Rayment. “I actually feel terrible now, as we used to rib him a little about it and his lack of mobility.
“After going for a scan, it has basically revealed that his ankle is destroyed. If you could buy a new ankle, that’s what he needs.
“The advice he received was that he should give up sport altogether, so he’s told me that he’s having to retire from football.
“I feel a bit numb, really. Forget Spalding United for a second, this is just terrible news for Jamie – I really feel for him.
“We’ll miss him badly. As we say in football, he’s got a real wand of a left foot.
“He’s never been the most athletic player, but what you got from him was incredible delivery and stunning goals that were worth the entrance fee alone.
“Personally, I’ll miss him too. He’s a good lad and, along with Michael Duggan, was one of the longest-serving members of the squad.
“It’s the end of a great relationship between the club and Jamie – and everyone here wishes him the very best of luck.”
Thurlbourne’s retirement means Spalding will have to dip back into the transfer market, with Rayment tracking talented young gun Will Rawdon.
Formerly of Sleaford Town and Gratham Town, Rawdon would be an ideal signing for the Tulips as he can play at left back or on the left side of midfield – two positions Thurlbourne excelled in.
Rayment confirmed that terms have been offered to the left-sider and is hopeful that a deal can be reached in the coming days.
