Opinion

Ex-Manchester United hero who is a ‘natural’ finisher could have same impact as Steven Fletcher at Wrexham

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Steven Fletcher was a Wrexham favourite in his two-season spell at the club, as he was part of the journey from League Two to the Championship.

The veteran striker was primarily used as an impact substitute for the club to help get results, like how he did in Wrexham’s dramatic draw with Crewe Alexandra in October 2023.

Fletcher recently announced his retirement from football, with there being many heartfelt messages to him after the announcement.

Rob Mac had ‘begged’ Fletcher to remain at Wrexham before releasing him two days later this summer as they looked to bring in players they believed may have more of an impact in the Championship.

Steven Fletcher of Wrexham
Photo by Chris Vaughan/Getty Images

However, recent reports in Mexican media have suggested that one former international star is set to become a free agent in December and it may be in the best interest for Wrexham to bring in a player that could have the same impact as the former Scotland international.

Wrexham may sign Javier Hernandez in January

Javier Hernandez seems to be exploring his options at the end of his contract with Guadalajara in December, meaning he will be available for a free transfer in January.

The Mexican international has indicated that he would love to make a return to English football, despite being 37 years old, meaning that his next move may be his last, similar to Fletcher.

Javier Hernandez scoring for Manchester United against Chelsea
Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

While at Manchester United, in arguably the best period of his career, Hernandez was utilised as a substitute by Sir Alex Ferguson to great effect, something Phil Parkinson may wish to explore.

As reported by ESPN, his impact off the bench was better than anyone else’s after his move to Real Madrid in 2014, as he had scored 16 off the bench across the last five seasons at the time, better than anyone else in the top five European leagues.

There would be a hope that he could bring this to Wrexham now as a veteran striker, bringing some World Cup pedigree to this Welsh side in the Championship.

However, there should be caution in making a move for the striker and not just relying on nostalgia, as Hernandez has only scored four goals in his past 43 appearances for LA Galaxy and Guadalajara.

Sir Alex Ferguson is a huge admirer of Javier Hernandez

The Mexican international was an important part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s Premier League-winning campaigns in 2011 and 2013.

The former Manchester United manager was amazed by his ability in front of goal, as he told the BBC in September 2010: “The way he took his chance, it was like shelling peas. It was so natural to him.

“He has work to do on his physique, but you cannot take away from the fact that he is a fantastic finisher.”

Although the love that the legendary football manager has for Hernandez is still evident today after he posted a heartfelt message to the Manchester United club website after the striker made a return to his home club after an ACL injury.