Wrexham have a gem in defender Max Cleworth.
Cleworth is currently partying in Las Vegas amid Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s end of season treat for the Wrexham squad after securing promotion to the Championship.
The 22-year-old academy product has enjoyed another outstanding campaign and Cleworth’s team mates were full of praise after he picked up two awards in the club’s end of season ceremony at the Racecourse Ground.
Ryan Barnett and Cleworth picked up a League One award after being named in the division’s team of the season and Cleworth is under no illusions as to who to thank for his development.
Max Cleworth credits Phil Parkinson for his career development
Speaking to the Leader, Cleworth has highlighted the support of Phil Parkinson during his time with Wrexham.
Cleworth stated: “I owe the gaffer a lot with what he’s done for me in my career, he’s almost made it really in terms of giving me the chance and I’d like to think that I’ve repaid him a fair bit.”
“To get those words off him as well means a lot and to win Young Player of the Season three out of four years is something to be really proud of.”
Cleworth can break a Wrexham record next season by becoming Parkinson’s most-used player should the defender continue to thrive and Paul Mullin departs the club as expected.
Max Cleworth highlights two Wrexham academy products
Wrexham’s academy has been upgraded to a category three establishment, highlighting the good work behind the scenes being completed by Michael Williamson at the club.
Cleworth has identified two players that supporters will want to keep an eye on for next season and the years beyond.
He explained: “This club is known for producing young players and I hope the likes of Harry Ashfield, who’s done really well this year, and Aaron James are the next ones to come through.
“And there’s plenty more in the youth team that have certainly got a bright future at this club.”
As Wrexham progress through the football pyramid, churning out high-quality youth products will become even more pivotal to the club’s fortunes.
Ashfield and James may well be the next ones to impress but they will have to go a long way to match the incredible performances of Cleworth.