John Achterberg

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

John Achterberg (born July 8, 1971 in Utrecht) is a Dutch footballer currently goalkeeper for Tranmere Rovers in England. He is Tranmere's longest serving player and has become something of a legend amongst Tranmere's fans. Achterberg is also renown for being found regularly in the club gym an hour before his teammates arrive for training, such is his professionalism and dedication for the club he loves.

The 6ft 1in shot-stopper first signed for Tranmere Rovers, 'The pride of the Wirral', in 1998 after a successful trial from FC Utrecht as a replacement for the Everton bound Steve Simonsen and was thrown into the first team immediately due to an injury to Danny Coyne, making his debut against Swindon Town on September 25th that year. Achterberg then deservedly cemented his place as number 1 at Rovers after Coyne's subsequent transfer to Grimsby in 1999. He became part of the giant killing cup teams that defeated such opponents as Everton, Southampton and other big teams. Achterberg's proficiency in goal was exemplified by the 20 clean sheets he kept during the 2003-04 season under the stewardship of Brian Little. One of his more memorable performances was against Millwall, where he managed to save a crucial penalty from Kevin Muscat in the 75th minute at the New Den, despite having to play through injury.

Achterberg's 2005-06 season was less successful. After spending most of the season sidelined with injuries, he was replaced by Steve Wilson and Matt Murray (on loan from Wolves), neither of which played with much conviction.

Unfortunately Achterberg has made no first-term appearances in the 2006-07 season as of yet (December 2006). This is partly because of the impressive form of veteran journeyman Gavin Ward who has consequently taken Achterberg's place in goal. To further exacerbate the situation, Achterberg has had horrendous injury problems, from which he has only just recovered. He looks to make his comeback in 2007.

Tranmere Rovers F.C. - Current Squad
1 Ward \| 2 Stockdale \| 3 Tremarco \| 4 McLaren \| 5 Cansdell-Sheriff \| 6 McAteer \| 7 Mullin \| 8 Zola \| 9 Taylor \| 10 Greenacre \| 11 Ellison \| 12 Jennings \| 14 Thompson \| 15 Goodison \| 16 McCready \| 17 James \| 18 Harrison \| 19 Davies \| 20 Henry \| 21 Jones \| 22 Johnston \| 23 Shuker \| 24 Achterberg \| 25 Curran \| 26 Hart \| Manager: Moore