Rovers Release Hero

Last updated : 25 May 2007 By Matthew Jones
Achterberg leaves Tranmere
Tranmere Rovers have today released local icon John Achterberg after the goalkeeper, who turns 36 in July, failed a medical at the club.

The Dutchman has had a number of injury problems over the last 18 months, which has ment he has made just five appearances since November 26th 2005, with two of them coming in the Johnstone Paint Trophy.

Achterberg signed for Tranmere under John Aldridge from FC Utrecht in Holland on a free transfer in September 1998 as a replacement for the out going Steve Simonsen. He has since gone on to make nearly 300 appearances for the club.

A local hero on the Wirral, Achterberg has often been praised for increadible work ethic and for many years was believed to be on of the best goalkeepers outside of the Premiership. The highlight of his career perhaps was a penalty save against Millwall at the New Den in the 2003/04 F.A. Cup Quarter Final.

It is a huge shame that the Big Dutchman has left Prenton Park, and I'm sure he will be welcomed back by Tranmere fans with open arms in a coaching role in the future.

Thank you for the memories John, and good luck.