Wrexham failed to beat Leyton Orient last time out but Arthur Okonkwo was still very impressive.
The Red Dragons travelled to Brisbane Road this past Saturday, facing off with Leyton Orient.
Wrexham were favourites going into the game, sitting top of the League One table while Orient were languishing in midtable.
However, despite Phil Parkinson scouting Leyton Orient in person earlier in the week, the Welsh outfit had a really tough time breaking down their latest opposition.
When all was said and done, Wrexham drew 0-0 with Leyton Orient, dealing their title hopes something of a blow.
It was a tough afternoon for Parkinson, who lost star centre-back Max Cleworth to injury for the game.
Cleworth has excelled for Wrexham in the early stages of 2024/25 and his absence will come as a major blow.
The stopper was not the only player who had to deal with some sort of fitness issue over the weekend, however.
Why Arthur Okonkwo display vs Leyton Orient is now even more impressive
Arthur Okonkwo returned to the Racecourse Ground on a permanent basis over the summer, joining from Arsenal on a free transfer.
The goalkeeper has excelled during his two stints in Wales so far, with Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds told Okonkwo will go to the ‘very top’.
And while Wrexham’s attack floundered against Leyton Orient, Okonkwo was once again a standout performer, including making a huge save in the first half to keep the game deadlocked at 0-0.
Now, the former Gunners’ display has been made even more impressive after Parkinson confirmed, as per Leader Live, that Okonkwo was playing against Leyton Orient despite the fact he was ill.
He said: “Arthur had a bit of sickness the last couple of days, a few of the lads have had that.
“But he wanted to play and that is what he is all about.
“The key moments, a striker scores or as a goalkeeper, it is making a big save when it is needed the most.”
- READ MORE: Wrexham in Welsh League Cup talks as Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds eye potential European route
Will Arthur Okonkwo start for Wrexham vs Stevenage
After failing to beat Orient on Saturday, Wrexham have slipped down to second in the League One table.
Birmingham City now have top spot and are two points above Parkinson’s men with a game in hand.
As a result, when Wrexham face Stevenage on Tuesday evening, it is imperative they pick up three points.
However, the Welsh side have now dropped points in three of their away fixtures so far this season, with it clear they need to improve on that front.
Wrexham are already somewhat weakened by the loss of Cleworth from their backline ahead of the game, and losing Okonkwo as well would be an even bigger blow.
Luckily for Parkinson though, Okonkwo should be available when Wrexham face Stevenage.
Dan Scarr or Lewis Brunt will likely come into the back five to replace Cleworth, while a big decision will need to be made regarding who starts up front.