A recent development has led Phil Parkinson to wax poetic about one of his Wrexham players.
For some clubs, the time between the end of the season and the start of the transfer window might be quiet; not for Wrexham, though.
Two weeks ago, Wrexham made their released/retained list public. Six players, including captain Luke Young and seasoned defender Ben Tozer, were among the departing players.
Although Phil Parkinson acknowledged that it was tough to let go of those outstanding employees, he wanted to see them succeed somewhere because he couldn’t guarantee them consistent football playing time.
Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have extended contracts to several of their first-team players during this time, and they have also made an offer for Steven Fletcher, a seasoned striker, and initiated James McClean’s extension.
James McClean gives himself a lot of credit for causing an extension
Perhaps one of the better acquisitions made by any League Two team in the summer transfer window was McClean, who was signed by Wrexham last summer.
The 35-year-old came from Wigan Athletic, who had just lost their Championship status.
McClean, like many players who sign with Wrexham, was enticed by the project that McElhenney and Reynolds were creating, and his on-field exploits demonstrated his versatility.
Parkinson’s promotion-winning team relied heavily on the adaptable Irishman, who could play as a left wing-back or central midfielder. The Reds manager has now praised the player.
“I am pleased that James’ extension was activated,” Parkinson stated in an interview with The Leader following McClean’s activation of his extension, which kept him at the Racecourse for an additional year.
“With everything he brings to the table in terms of his all-around game, he proved to be an excellent signing and is a key player for us.” Because of his exceptional drive and determination, he has performed at a high level.
“He played in the Championship last season for Wigan. He has been promoted out of League One with Wigan so he knows this division well.
“Obviously he has retired from international football. He got his 100 caps and now he can have a real focus on having a good pre-season with us and I am looking forward to working with him again next season.”
James McClean will play a key role in League One
After being described by Ben Foster as the hardest-working player he’s ever seen, it is clear that McClean’s fitness levels are that of someone in his mid-20s, not someone coming to the end of his career.
The former Sunderland wideman, as alluded to by Parkinson, will play a key role for Wrexham in League One.
Left wing-back is one of the current positions in their squad that doesn’t need instant reinforcements, with Mendy and McClean battling for that spot.
The Irishman can also slot into central midfield, giving Parkinson the option to play Mendy while including his integral cog in the side.
A summer of change will ensue in Wales, but one thing is for sure, McClean will continue to play a vital role under Parkinson’s guidance.
