Wrexham goalkeeper Mark Howard has been a consistent part of Phil Parkinon’s squad since the 56-year-old arrived at the Racecourse.
Howard may not always be Parkinson’s number-one goalkeeper regularly but remains key to how the English coach has built his squad.
Since Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds completed their Hollywood takeover of the Red Dragons, they have trusted and supported Phil Parkinson with improving the Wrexham playing squad.
Several big-name players have arrived through the door at the Racecourse including Paul Mullin, Steven Fletcher, Elliot Lee, and James McClean.
The Wrexham boss has often turned to his bench to rotate and create competition for places in the starting 11.
Players like Sam Dalby, Luke Bolton, and Anthony Forde optimize the importance of a strong squad. Mark Howard has been key to the goalkeeping department and he has played his part in being a leader on and off the pitch.
During Wrexham’s push for promotion from the National League, Howard impressed Parkinson with his selfless character. Howard at the time was a regular name on the team sheet but Parkinson was presented with an opportunity to sign former Premier League goalkeeper Ben Foster.
Parkinson spoke with Howard about this opportunity and the goalkeeper understood that Foster could enhance the chance of being promoted back to the Football League, so took a reduced role in the squad.
Mark Howard explains his new role at Wrexham
Since arriving at the StoK Cae Ras in 2022 Howard has competed with several goalkeepers for the number-one spot at the Racecourse. The likes of Rob Lainton, Ben Foster, and Arthur Okonkwo being Parkinson’s preferred choice to Howard.
Wrexham announced on Tuesday that the 37-year-old veteran would represent Wrexham for a third campaign after signing a one-year contract extension.
Speaking to the club website, Howard commented: “I’m delighted. To be part of the Club on the journey it’s on is a great honour for myself towards the back end of my career and I’m still loving my football.
“I know I’ve got a different role to play going forward but I absolutely love it. I’d obviously love to play week-in, week-out but I have to accept at 37 that I can’t physically do that.
“Last year, I really enjoyed pushing the other keepers and working in that goalkeeping unit, and going forward I’ll continue to do that and hopefully get a few games along the way.”
After Okonkwo’s loan from Arsenal expired at the end of last season Howard remains the most senior goalkeeper at the club.
Okonkwo remains a transfer target with Rob McElhenney recently hinting that there is a chance for the young goalkeeper to return to North Wales.
Despite interest in signing another goalkeeper this summer Parkinson is happy that Howard has extended his stay with the Red Dragons.
Speaking to The Leader, the Wrexham boss said: “Mark has been good with the young goalkeepers and that is really key for us.”
Since signing for the club Howard has made 49 appearances for the club and has been a reliable option for Parkinson.
In his debut season, the veteran shot-stopper managed to keep 12 clean sheets with him also claiming another four last season to raise his total to 16 for the Red Dragons.
The 37-year-old only featured on ten occasions last season but clearly remains an invaluable member of the dressing room.