Former Celtic star set for UK return after exit from latest club as they pay emotional tribute
The ex Coventry and West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper is set for his next challenge
Former Celtic man Jonathan Gould is leaving his role as goalkeeping coach at A-League side Auckland FC.
The ex Hoops stopper, who made over 150 appearances during his six years at Parkhead as a player, has spent the last two years with the New Zealand side and has helped them to an A-League title and Men’s Championship during this time. At the age of 57, he’s now moving back to the UK to be with his family.
Also leaving Auckland is striker Jesse Randall, who is set to join Dundee United for a deal reportedly around £750k after bagging 12 goals last season. Head Football Analyst Carl Edwards is also on his way out. Auckland paid tribute to the trio in a statement, wishing Gould, Randall and Edwards all the best.
Gould leaves Auckland FC
The statement read: “Randall departs the club for the FIFA World Cup with the All Whites and will join Scottish side Dundee United after the tournament. Also departing the club is goalkeeping coach Johnathan Gould. Affectionately known as Gouldy, the former Coventry City and Celtic goalkeeper has made the decision to return to the UK, where his family is based.
“He will be remembered for his excellent coaching, the emotional support he provided to players, as well as his love of sweets – particularly Maltesers. Also departing from the club is Carl Edwards, Head Football Analyst. Like Gouldy, he has been at the club since the beginning. Everyone at the club wished Jesse, Gouldy and Carl all the very best for the future, and they will always be welcomed back at Auckland FC.”
Randall set for World Cup with Celtic-linked star
The Tangerines’ new addition will be heading to North America with New Zealand, who also have Motherwell’s Elijah Just in their ranks. The midfielder was nominated for last season’s PFA Premiership Player of the Year and has been linked with a move to Celtic Park once the tournament is over.
His agent Gustaf Grauers said: “Elijah has had a very strong season and really enjoyed his football at Motherwell, where everyone around the club has been excellent with him."There is interest from different clubs, as you would expect, but the focus now is fully on the World Cup and we will evaluate everything properly after the tournament.”
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