Portland United can confirm the departure of Greg Borthwick following his retirement.

Borthwick played a key role in the club’s promotion to the Southern League Division One South, having rejoined the club in January 2025, finishing as top goal scorer in the 2025/26 season.

The club would like to place on record their thanks to Greg and for all he’s achieved at Portland United, we all wish him the very best in his retirement.

Greg issued the following statement to the Portland United fans:

With the dust now settled after an amazing season and promotion to the Southern League. I feel it’s the right time for me to step away from football and announce my retirement

Portland United has been more than just a football club to me. It’s a place I can call home and my family. Portland gave me purpose when I needed it most, and a love for football that I never thought I’d have again.

It’s been an honour to play for the club and a dream to be your number 9 all these years.

I can’t thank you all enough for the support and encouragement, and especially to the gaffa for giving me the opportunity and guidance when I needed most.

I will always be a Blue,

It’s not goodbye, just I’ll see you around Portland

Borths 9

First team manager Kyle Critchell spoke highly of last season’s top goalscorer:

I am writing to congratulate Greg on officially retiring and to thank him for everything he has given to our team over the years.

Since joining us, you have been a cornerstone of this squad. I will never forget some of the performances and goals you have put in whilst at the Blues.

Beyond your undeniable talent, your leadership in the locker room and willingness to mentor younger teammates has set a standard of excellence that will be felt at this club for a very long time. Your final act as a player was to play a huge part in our season to achieve history for our club by securing promotion.

While we will certainly miss having you on the pitch, I am thrilled for you as you begin this next phase of your life with your beautiful family. I hope you take immense pride in what you have accomplished.

You will always be welcome back with your family, and the friendship and bond we have will be with us for life!

With deepest gratitude and respect,

Critch