Phil Parkinson has ‘shocked’ figures within Wrexham with his latest signing of Danny Ward, Wrexham Insider understands.
Phil Parkinson praised Ward after the goalkeeper signed a two-year contract to return to the Racecourse Ground.
Ward joins Ryan Hardie as Wrexham’s two summer signings so far and Parkinson is keen to add more quality to his squad before the Championship season opener against Southampton.
With Ward’s arrival, there have been questions over what the deal means for Wrexham’s current goalkeepers Arthur Okonkwo and Callum Burton and Parkinson has certainly ‘shocked’ a few with his decision.
Danny Ward will be Wrexham’s number two goalkeeper as it stands
Burton will feel aggrieved at Ward’s arrival after impressing as Okonkwo’s understudy last season before facing fitness issues of his own.
Okonkwo isn’t daunted by the Championship and will be keen to further enhance his glowing reputation with the Red Dragons next season.
However, according to TBR Football’s chief transfer expert Graeme Bailey, the acquisition of Ward has been a huge surprise to figures within the club.
Bailey stated: “I do know that some within the club are shocked by Danny Ward’s signing and what that will mean for Arthur Okonkwo – who was arguably their best player last season.
“As it stands it is presumed Ward will be No 2.”
Wrexham fans are puzzled by Ward but the Red Dragons will need a strong squad for the challenge next season and Parkinson sees his experience as adding something to the group.
Danny Ward’s Championship record
Neither Okonkwo or Burton have any experience playing in the second tier and it is thought that Ward would be used as part of their learning experience.
Should Okonkwo have a challenging spell next season, he has Ward’s experience to lean on and Parkinson knows that he has an international goalkeeper to take the youngster out of the firing line.
| Danny Ward’s Championship record | Appearances | Goals conceded | Clean sheets |
| Ward | 43 | 52 | 11 |
As long as Ward doesn’t hinder the progress of Okonkwo, it is another smart acquisition from Parkinson in having that blend of youthful energy and wiser heads.
However, the acquisition is not good news for Burton and with a 25-man squad restriction next season, it remains to be seen what happens next with the 28-year-old goalkeeper.