Jamie Gould signed during the first close season of Graham Westley’s reign; the winger coming in from Boston United along with Peter Costello. His arrival came just after Justin Gregory had gone on his way, leaving us with a major shortage of left-sided players. And GW saw the Pilgrims’ Young Player of the Year as the man to fill that gap. But when you get an injury without kicking a ball in vain, it gets you off on the wrong note.

That’s what happened with Gould. A training injury delayed his debut until a sub outing at Telford United some months after joining. But the utility player went on to figure frequently in the 2003-4 season; quickly drafted into the let back berth after injuries to Lee Flynn and the need for Barry Laker to stay central after Jason Goodliffe picked up a knock. As such, Gould clocked up 33 times during his first season.

Jamie Gould: After Boro’

Yet, Justin Gregory came back that summer and left Gould with fewer opportunities. Soon he found himself frozen out, with midfield chances even harder to come by thanks to the emergence of George Boyd.  After a successful loan spell at Conference South strugglers Welling United, Boro’ fans feared he found his realistic level, and it came as no surprise when he was put out of his misery and a deal was agreed to take him to Kettering Town.

Gould was a player who always seemed to be playing within his real abilities. Hard to dislike, but hardly hero worshipped at the same time. May he sail in football for a good time to come with our best wishes.

Jamie Gould. Always believe in your soul.

Image: Kevin Coleman (if incorrect, please contact us and we’ll happily credit you)