Wrexham moved on a number of previously key players during the 2024 summer transfer window.
Wrexham spent 15 years languishing in the National League before Phil Parkinson finally ended their long wait for an EFL return in 2022/23.
The Red Dragons quickly rose to to the top of League Two and are now plying their trade in the third tier.
After reaching League One, there were a lot of incomings and outgoings at the Racecourse Ground in the most recent transfer window
Parkinson was able to add nine new players to his first-team squad, the majority of which have fared well so far.
However, that influx of talent also meant several former star’s time in Wales came to an end.
Aaron Hayden, Luke Young, Ben Tozer, Jordan Tunnicliffe, Scott Butler and Owen Cushion were all released by Wrexham when their contracts expired at the end of 2023/24.
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Ben Tozer proving Wrexham wrong with Forest Green
Last month, club chief Shaun Harvey sent a clear message to the released Wrexham players, one of which was Tozer.
After his time with the Red Dragons came to an end, the central defender opted to join National League side Forest Green.
Now 34, it is easy to see why Wrexham decided that it was best not to offer Tozer a new contract as most players his age are past their prime and their ability is fading.
However, the Plymouth-born star is now proving Parkinson and co. were wrong to axe him over the summer.
Tozer has featured in 16 league games for Forest Green already in 2024/25 and even captained them on seven occasions.
He has been in top form and is a key reason why they are currently sitting second in the National League with the second-best defensive record in the division.
How the other released Wrexham stars are faring
Aside from Tozer, the majority of the other stars Wrexham released over the summer have not fared too well.
Cushion has dropped down to the Northern Premier League Premier Division with Prescot Cables.
Bulter is now plying his trade in the National League North with Marine FC, Tunnicliffe is back in the National League with Solihull Moors, while Aaron Hayden joined League Two side Carlisle United.
Elsewhere, Luke Young scored a stunning goal last month and won a Man of the Match award following a starring display for Cheltenham Town.
Young has arguably had the second-most success since departing Wrexham behind Tozer, with it clear both players could still have played a role for Parkinson in 2024/25.