Wrexham star fears ban on 'anti-football' rule could ‘ruin my career' as he says 'I nearly had to hand in my retirement'

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WREXHAM star Ben Tozer joked that the EFL are trying to force him into retirement by introducing a new rule.

Tozer, 33, has developed a reputation as a long-throw in specialist throughout his career.

His incredible hoists proved to be particularly handy as Wrexham won the National League last season.

In order to get the most distance possible on his throws, Tozer always ensures that the ball is dry.

But with the EFL banning players from using towels during games, the defender’s throw-ins could be neutralised.

Tozer joked that the powers that be are trying to “ruin” his career with the rule change.

But he was deadly serious when he insisted long throws are not “anti-football” – and merely part of the game.

He said: “I might have upset someone in the EFL because they’re trying to ruin my career. I nearly had to hand my retirement straight away.

“I understand it because some people see it as anti-football, but it’s part of football.

“Throw-ins are just like a corner or a penalty, they are set pieces.

“We had a bit of an advantage but there are ways around everything and I’ve got the shirt that I’m wearing.

“I can still dry the ball with that.

“I’m sure there will be other ways around it as well but it’s just one of those things you just have to get on with.”

Wrexham are set to jet out to the US for an exciting pre-season tour next month

Tozer and Co will play Chelsea in North Carolina on July 19, before travelling to San Diego to play Manchester United a week later.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s League Two new-boys will then host MK Dons on August 5 in their season curtain-raiser.

Occasional Digest