Wrexham has been on one magnificent journey since the takeover of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Does it almost still all feel like a dream?
There’s still a bit of surrealism about it all but we’ve almost become accustomed to it now.
The man who has spearheaded that journey is ex-Sunderland manager Phil Parkinson. What has led to him to stay in the job for such a long duration despite pressure every year for instant success?
Very simply – he’s been successful. Playoffs followed by three successive
promotions and our highest ever league finish.
Throw in a FA Trophy Cup final and FA Cup shocks, there’s no doubt he’s exceeded all expectations. The right man for the job.
Parkinson received vast criticism during his time on Wearside for his playing style. Has this ever been apparent during his time at Wrexham?
A little bit but do you want sexy football or results?
Very rarely do you find a manager that gets both on a consistent basis. We’ve won ugly and won with style. The outcome is the same regardless.
The club achieved their highest ever finish last season finishing just outside of the playoffs, is their optimism that you can go one step further this season?
Cautious optimism. The pressure is enormous now but that’s the same for at least six to 10 other clubs in the division who all expect to be in the mix.
We found our feet last season. Whether we can sustain it in season two is the big question.
Your playing squad is full of ex-Sunderland heads with Callum Doyle, George Dobson, Nathan Broadhead and Davis Keillor-Dunn. How would you summarise each of their tenures at Wrexham?
Doyle is simply too good for the Championship. There’s a reason Manchester City inserted a buy back clause.
Dobbo has really shown he can do it at this level and he doesn’t get the credit he deserves. An all action operator.
Broady has flattered to deceive since coming home. Maybe he’s felt the weight of the price tag. I expect him to fly out of the gate this season though.As for DKD, second time definitely isn’t a charm. He’s been left to rot on the bench. A January loan move seems very likely unless he gets a run in the side.
Aside from the above-mentioned players, who are the danger men Sunderland will have to be wary of?
Sam Smith is a very intelligent runner and has scored the winners over Leeds and Manchester United in pre season.
Doyle tends to get forward and splits the lines with some sublime passes.
Do you expect Wrexham to take a more defensive approach tomorrow or go for it?
This will mean something to Parky. C
oming away with a win will be particularly sweet for him so I expect us to pick our moments earlier in the game.
If you had to guess the starting XI, what would it be?
Almost impossible!
New signing Danny Imray will be involved but with the start of the season creeping ever closer it’s tough to see what Parky will start with for the first half before wholesale changes.
Lastly, for a bit of fun, what is your score prediction?
2-2.
