We are sad to announce that our captain Alex Francis has been forced to retire following a serious knee injury incurred towards the end of our recent home fixture against Northallerton Town.
Having worked hard to return this season after a long spell on the sidelines, it comes as a bitter blow.
A true ‘Rolls Royce’ of a player, Alex joined us in the summer of 2022 following a distinguished career that began at Newcastle United’s academy, before taking in spells at such clubs as Gateshead, Bishop Auckland, Consett and Dunston.
His presence and leadership in midfield and later defence helped see Birtley through a period of unprecedented success, including Promotion to Northern League Division One via the playoffs in his first season, and a fourth place finish the next – the highest placing in our history.
Alex is loved and respected by team-mates and opponents alike and will be missed by everyone at Birtley Town. He will always be welcome at the Arrowmark Home Improvements Stadium, and we wish him and his family all the best as he recovers.
