Wrexham have shown an appetite to tie down their most invaluable assets to new contracts, with Tom O’Connor the latest to commit his future to the Racecourse Ground.
It’s been an unbelievable few weeks for Wrexham in the transfer window, who have been extremely busy with signing players and tying down their current assets to new deals.
Supporters can be delighted with the business done so far having watched Phil Parkinson capture three quality players in Arthur Okonkwo, Lewis Brunt and most recently, George Dobson.
Parkinson believes they already boast a strong core heading into the 2024/25 campaign and he’s looking to add to that with a couple more signings, whilst focusing on his current group.
George Evans and Max Cleworth have committed their futures to the club by signing contracts till 2026 and 2027 respectively, while defender Tom O’Connor is the latest to be awarded for his effort.
Tom O’Connor reacts after signing new Wrexham contract
Southampton academy graduate O’Connor played a crucial role for Parkinson last term as his exceptional versatility helped Wrexham win promotion.
Capable of playing on the left side of defence or as a central midfielder, the 25-year-old was present most weeks and filled in superbly when Parkinson suffered injuries.
On their return to the fourth tier, O’Connor featured 33 times and towards the end of the campaign, formed a solid defensive partnership with Cleworth and Eoghan O’Connell.
That defensive trio was unbreakable and despite the arrival of Brunt from Leicester City, Parkinson may choose to keep it together for the start of the 2024/25 season.
O’Connor’s talent in a Wrexham shirt hasn’t gone unnoticed and last summer, Championship side Coventry City showed interest in the Irishman.
To avoid losing him on a free transfer next summer and tie down yet another invaluable asset, Wrexham have given him a new contract till 2027.
Reacting to this news via Wrexham’s official website, O’Connor said: “I’m delighted, it’s been a great two and a half years and I’m really looking forward to seeing where this journey will go.
“Everyone knows the pull of Wrexham and there’s a real feel-good factor after back-to-back promotions.
“A lot of people would jump at the chance of playing for Wrexham, so I am delighted to sign my new contract.”
O’Connor deserved a new deal at Wrexham
Wrexham have several stars who steal the limelight, particularly Elliot Lee and Paul Mullin, but O’Connor’s work in their rise from the National League has been just as important.
He’s comfortable on the ball when playing as a left centre-back and in the victory over Grimsby, he showcased his eye for pass from midfield, assisting Andy Cannon, who rounded off a superb counter-attacking goal.
With previous League One experience under his belt at Burton Albion and Gillingham, too, O’Connor is one of the players not entering the unknown when Wrexham kick off their season against Wycombe Wanderers on August 10th.
Indeed, his exceptional talent and experience – having played 80 times in the third tier – are two of the many reasons why he deserved a new contract.