Woody - the end of a long goodbye

[rsmith]

So finally, the day that has been forecast, postponed, ITKd and rued for the last three seasons is now upon us.

The man mountain that is Jonathan Simon Woodgate, has removed his spurs shirt for the last time. He only spent three years with us, which in most people's opinion would deny him "Leg" status. For me however, Woody is probably the most cultured centre back I've seen grace the Lane. Yes, I did just use the words "cultured" and "Woody" in the same sentence. Who'd have predicted that in 2000!

For those oh-so-few games where he partnered Ledders, we were impenetrable. I still giggle at images of striker after striker knocking themselves out against the brick wall of Woody and Ledders. Those few games were the only times I have actually enjoyed watching us on the defensive. As a defensive duo, they weren't just the best I've seen at the Lane, but would easily have been the preferred pairing at international level.

It's a massive disappointment that we couldn't keep him on. I'm sure the issue was the 25-man squad limit, rather than any desire by the club or the player to part company.

So long, Woody. Thanks for all of the memories, and one in particular, for which every Yid on the planet will ever be grateful. :clap:

 

[Dougal]

Cheers Woody, for that day at Wembley and the night in the bell and hare after. 'We've got Wood! We've got Wood!' :grin:

We've lost Wood :-(

 

[OmarsComing]

got a wood reading the op

 

[Stoof]

Cheers Woody, for that day at Wembley and the night in the bell and hare after. 'We've got Wood! We've got Wood!' :grin:

We've lost Wood :-(

That was awesome. I think we broke the chairs.

WE'VE GOT WOOD!!

Ledge.

 

[alamo]

[yt]XxZRuOiZfLw[/yt]

Fantastic player on his day and will never be forgotten for that Carling Cup final goal

 

[yawa]

All the best Woody!

 

[sweyid]

One of my favourite players, I wish him all the best.

Thanks for everything, Woody!

 

[marvel]

Was nice to see a real classy defender in the team when he played. Such a shame about the injury, thanks Mr Woodgate

 

[The Apprentice]

For that very brief period where we had King and Woodgate fit, we had by far and away our best CB combination that I've seen. Speed, class, poise and judgement. An all too fleeting glimpse.

Good luck Wooders, you will always be a legend for that goal.

 

[$hoguN]

It's a real tragedy that both King and Woody never got a chance to have the glittering careers their talent deserved.

Good luck where ever you go next Woody

 

[kishman]

If it wasn't for his injuries he could've been the second best defender in the world (after Ledley of course). What a shame. I wish him all the best for the future.