James McClean has been a revelation since he decided to make the move to Wrexham.
James McClean joined Wrexham from Wigan Athletic in 2023 and has been crucial to the club’s success over the last year and a bit.
The Irishman has quickly cemented himself as a key player under Phil Parkinson during his stint at the Racecourse Ground.
Previously, McClean earned high praise from Ben Foster, who described him as the hardest-working professional he has ever seen.
The 35-year-old has so far made 58 appearances for the Red Dragons in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing 14 assists.
His link-up play with fellow wing-back Ryan Barnett on the opposite flank has been a joy to watch in 2024/25
And his form in 2023/24 saw Wrexham sign McClean to a new contract that will keep him in Wales until 2026.
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Why James McClean is playing so well for Wrexham
During 2023/24, McClean was given the captain’s armband on a few occasions by Parkinson.
Now, in the current campaign, the defender has been made the permanent Wrexham captain by his manager.
And, when speaking ahead of Charlton Athletic, as per Leader Live, McClean spoke of his joy at being named club captain.
He also suggested that the fact he is now captain and all the fans and everyone at Wrexham have taken to him has gone a long way to helping him produce his best football.
He said: “It is a great honour to be given the armband. Leading this group of lads out is special, to be trusted with that role is something I take great pride in.
“Hopefully I can help continue the success this season as well. The fans and everybody around the club has taken to me and that means a lot when you join a club and you feel valued as a footballer and a person.
“If you feel valued, it does go a long way and helps you produce your best. When you step on the football pitch, you represent that badge 100 per cent.
“You give everything and I think fans can resonate with that. When you are given the honour of wearing the jersey and representing the club, you give the maximum you can and I will continue to do that.”
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James McClean makes Wrexham League One claim
In the same interview, McClean spoke about Wrexham competing in League One this season.
The Welsh outfit are currently second in the division going into the weekend’s action.
Wrexham are already four points off top spot having played a game more than Birmingham City, who look nailed on for the title.
But McClean is of the opinion that his club are more than capable of competing with any side in the division due to their quality.
He said: “You look at the squad we have and the quality we have, we’re more than a match for anybody, but you have to be bang at it every game.”