Wrexham AFC may be competing in League One, but the attention it receives is unlike anything any third-division team has ever experienced. Guided by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who own the club and the immensely popular docuseries Welcome to Wrexham, the Red Dragons are drawing fans and media from across the globe. Despite this unprecedented exposure, manager Phil Parkinson insists he’s found the right balance to keep the team focused on the pitch.
The team secured a narrow victory over Peterborough United, celebrating Parkinson's remarkable 1,000th game as a manager. The win, highlighted by veteran striker Steven Fletcher’s late goal, showcased Wrexham's tenacity as they maintain their bid for promotion. According to Parkinson, “I think one of the key things we’ve all done well [is] we’ve got the balance right... the focus is always there when we’re training and when match day arrives.”
The pressure of constant cameras and media attention does create challenges. Parkinson acknowledges the difficulties of keeping the players grounded under such scrutiny, explaining, “It’s a challenge, but it’s part of the job. Keeping the lads grounded is important because they’ve got unusual, extraordinary amount of attention for players at the level we’re at.” Despite the distractions, he’s focused on ensuring the players keep their dedication to the team's roots, saying, “we’re representing a real working-class town.”
Wrexham now turns its attention to their next match against Port Vale after the victory over Peterborough, a game where Parkinson is expected to rotate his squad. With injuries sidelining players like Lewis Brunt and Elliot Lee, Parkinson likely sees this EFL Trophy clash as an opportunity to rest key players as they push for promotion. The manager's positive attitude is reflected as he recognizes the importance of squad depth and proper management.
Some of the central figures, such as Fletcher, have been pivotal throughout the season. With four goals over the last six games, three of which have proven to be match-winners, Fletcher is instrumental as the team seeks to rise through the ranks. Supporters are also keeping their eye on the potential of striker Mo Faal, who, though seeking to make more appearances, is seen as one for the future if he can hone his skills and consistency.
Phil Parkinson remains focused on Wrexham's goals for the season and is considering the club's needs for future signings as the January transfer window approaches. Fans are eager for new talent to bolster their promotion campaign. Speaking to The Leader, he noted, “We want to get Tuesday’s game out of the way and then just sit down, myself and the owners, and say ‘let’s look at our squad, where are we going to go for the second part of the season.’”
Wrexham’s rise to fame hasn’t just attracted attention from fans; the club’s newfound celebrity status has brought A-list names to their games, adding excitement and buzz around each match. Parkinson commented on this phenomenon: “They’ve got great passion for this football club, and they’re very determined to do what they set out to do right from the start.” This unique atmosphere contributes to the overall morale and spirit of the players, which Parkinson aims to maintain through every step of their campaign.
With the combination of dedicated ownership, strong player performances, and unwavering community support, Wrexham AFC is entering an exciting phase. It’s more than just football; it’s about representing their community on and off the pitch. Parkinson wraps up his philosophy nicely, stating, “We’ve got to make sure we run hard every game, we play with real fire and determination. You can’t always win, but if we represent the area the right way, then I'm always happy.”