Wrexham have recovered from their setback against Leyton Orient to put themselves well and truly back in the promotion picture.
Wrexham had to capitalise on a ‘good day’ after rivals Wycombe, Stockport and Birmingham all dropped points in the League One promotion race.
Phil Parkinson’s side certainly did that with an excellent 2-1 win away at Mansfield and the result leaves them just three points behind Wycombe in second place.
Sam Smith was full of praise for the Wrexham fans following the victory and his fellow strike partner Jay Rodriguez has been sending a different message to supporters after a mixed start at the club.
Jay Rodriguez makes promise to Wrexham fans
Speaking to The Leader, Red Dragons striker Rodriguez has been discussing his early thoughts on his career at the Racecourse Ground and the ambitions for the rest of the season.
Rodriguez stated: “I’ve always said if you keep trying to improve, it’s a really good feeling for yourself as a footballer. You need that. As soon as I came in, I knew it was the right thing. The lads, staff and everyone part of the club has made me feel really welcome which you really appreciate.”
Wrexham have the prospect of promotion and an EFL Trophy triumph in their sights and the 35-year-old England international is keen to do all he can to help achieve ‘history.’
Rodriguez explained: “There’s nothing more bigger than a promotion and a cup final It gets you buzzing and it gets you ready to go out there and keep working, keep improving and keep pushing forward.
“We’ve got a lot to play for and that’s the main thing. It’s something that would go down in history and I think it’s what this club deserves. It’s really important and I am really enjoying it. I’ll always continue to work to my maximum.”
Phil Parkinson needs to get the best out of Rodriguez
Rodriguez is yet to get off the mark in front of goal for his new club and despite showing signs of developing a partnership with Smith, fans are becoming frustrated with the veteran forward.
Parkinson may have to rethink his striker selection given that the two new signings are still adapting to the Wrexham system and someone like Paul Mullin could bring the best out of the duo.
Although club legend Mullin isn’t having the best of seasons himself having scored just three league goals, he could be the perfect foil for either Rodriguez or Smith to thrive.
Knowing Parkinson’s system and way of playing takes time, therefore it would do Wrexham supporters well to keep supporting the new signings as once they find form, they could provide the firepower needed for the club’s third successive promotion.