Former Workington Reds forward Iyrwah Gooden is set to miss the majority of the 2025/26 campaign with Emley.
Gooden, who only rejoined the club in June, was forced off during the second half of Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Stalybridge Celtic, in what was their penultimate pre-season friendly.
Following further assessment, Emley have confirmed that he has suffered a ruptured achilles which will sideline him for the majority of the season.
In a statement confirming the severity of the injury, Gooden was described as a key member of the squad, with the club.
It added: “This is very disappointing for everyone at the club, especially as we were so excited to welcome Iyrwah back into the Emley family for the new campaign.”
Manager Richard Tracey said: “We’re absolutely gutted for Iyrwah. He worked hard in pre-season and was looking sharp.
“It’s a massive blow for him personally, and for us as a team. We were all buzzing to have him back at Emley, and to lose him so early is really tough.
“But knowing Iyrwah, he’ll approach this recovery with the same energy and resilience he brings on the pitch.
“He’s got the full backing of everyone at the club, and we’ll be there for him every step of the way.”
Gooden returned to Emley back in June following spells at Bury and Bradford (Park Avenue).
He was signed for Workington by Danny Grainger during his first spell at Borough Park in 2021 before he left to join Falkirk.
He never really established himself at Reds but he has packed in plenty of experience since he started with Mansfield Under-18s, playing for Ramsbottom, Warrington Town, Chester, Clitheroe and Worksop with two spells at Emley.
