Wrexham icon announces retirement in heartfelt post after being released by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's side

Fletcher was among several stars who exited Wrexham at the end of the 2024-25 campaign as the club planned to rebuild their squad in the summer transfer window before competing in the Championship. In his two seasons at the SToK Cae Ras, Fletcher scored 16 goals in 73 league games as the Red Dragos secured successive promotions from League Two in 2023-24 and then League One in 2024-25.

After leaving the Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney-owned club in the summer, the veteran forward was linked with a move back to Scotland to join Hibernian, a club he started his professional career at, however, at 38, Fletcher did not want to extend his journey and finally decided to announce his retirement. 

On Monday, Fletcher shared a heartfelt post on Instagram to announce his retirement, where he wrote: "After a lot of thought, I feel the time is right to retire from football. It’s not an easy decision because this game has been my life since I was a boy, but I know in my heart it’s the right moment to close this chapter. When I look back, I feel nothing but pride and gratitude. From starting out at Hibs to the journeys with Burnley, Wolves, Sunderland, Marseille, Sheffield Wednesday, Stoke, Dundee United and finishing at Wrexham every club has shaped me and given me memories I’ll never forget. I want to thank all the fans who supported me along the way your passion and backing meant the world. Pulling on the Scotland shirt was also one of the greatest honours of my career. To represent my country and share the pitch with so many talented lads is something I’ll always treasure. Those moments stay with you forever. I owe so much to all my managers and coaches, who taught me lessons not just about football but about life, and to every team-mate I’ve shared a dressing room with I’ve been lucky to call so many of you friends. But above all, I want to thank my family. My wife and kids have been my biggest strength through all the highs and the tough times too the moves, the injuries, the sacrifices. I also want to give special thanks to my mum and my sister, who have been there for me every step of the way, and to my agent Scott Fisher, who has guided and supported me throughout my career. None of this would have been possible without their love, loyalty and encouragement, and I’ll always be grateful. Football has given me more than I ever dreamed of, and I step away with a full heart, proud of what I’ve achieved, and excited for whatever comes next. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who has been part of my journey. Fletch!"

After a tough start to their journey in the Championship, Wrexham have finally found their form as they are now unbeaten in their last three matches across all competitions. Phil Parkinson's side will hope to extend that streak when they face Leicester City on Tuesday.