Ugarte exits Red Dragons
17 Jan 2008 - 07:27:25
Wrexham striker Juan Ugarte has left the Racecourse Ground and returned to Spain after failing to recover from long-standing knee and ligament injuries.
The 27-year-old has had his contract cancelled after failing to start a game for the Red Dragons in almost two years.
Manager Brian Little told the club's official website: "From a distance I'd been looking forward to working with Juan who, from when I was at Tranmere, had been earning himself a wonderful reputation a couple of years ago.
"I can honestly say he attracted our attention up there, so it's sad that he's decided to move on and obviously back to his homeland in Spain.
"He's a really nice guy who's had a tough period. I myself had to retire from football at a similar age to him.
"I know he's had a load of injury issues, but I'd like to wish well and hope that it all works out for him.
"Juan will always be welcome back here at any time and we all look forward to seeing him again at some time in the future."
Ugarte initially moved to Wrexham from Real Sociedad just over three years ago and, in his two spells with the club, scored 22 goals in only 31 starts and 13 appearances from the substitute's bench.
His injury nightmare began in the summer of 2005 after he had sealed a move to Crewe Alexandra. Ugarte started only one match during his time at Gresty Road before returning to Wrexham.