Phil Parkinson’s starting XI may look a little different after several new summer signings arrive at Wrexham.
The 2024/25 League One season is fast approaching with the club looking to strengthen in the coming weeks.
Holywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have already brought in Arthur Okonkwo, former Charlton Athletic captain George Dobson, and have even snapped up Leicester City defender Lewis Brunt.
All three signings will want to make a strong start and force their way into the starting XI.
Wrexham manager Parkinson will be looking for strength in depth in his squad, with a strong competitiveness for a starting role.
injuries aside, we take a look at Wrexham’s strongest XI.
Wrexham’s strongest XI under Phil Parkinson
Heading into next season it is likely there will be a familiar tactical shape and formation under Parkinson. The former Sunderland coach has had great success in back-to-back promotions using a back three with two strikers leading the line. It is expected that the 56-year-old coach will look to continue using this tactical system of 3-5-2.
Goalkeeper
Arthur Okonkwo
The former Arsenal goalkeeper was a massive success at the Racecourse on loan last season. After permanently returning to the club on a three-year deal in June, Okonkwo will be Parkinson’s number one with Mark Howard challenging the young goalkeeper.
Centre-backs
Eoghan O’Connell
O’Connell became a mainstay in Parkinson’s side last year and was an impressive powerful figure at the back. His aerial ability and strength in duels will provide the back three with the necessary solidity and rigour it needs in League One.
Lewis Brunt
New summer signing Lewis Brunt is expected to become a regular in the starting XI. The 23-year-old was key player for Mansfield Town who had an impressive defensive record last year. Brunt is capable of carrying the ball out of defence and starting attacks for the Wrexham side.
It will be interesting how quickly the manager integrates the new signing into his XI, But Brunt’s ability give him a strong chance to become the starting centre-half.
His arrival could be bad news for rising star Max Cleworth, who’ll have to battle to keep his starting place despite signing a new contract recently.
Tom O’Connor
Tom O’Connor has recently signed a new three-year deal at the club with him set to continue as a key man in the side. If O’Connor can remain fit he is a really important member of the starting XI. Similar to Brunt, the former Burton Albion star is comfortable on the ball and can progress play from Wrexham’s backline.
- READ MORE: Phil Parkinson must now prioritise signing ‘brilliant’ Wrexham target after George Dobson coup
Wing-backs
Ryan Barnett
Ryan Barnett is a consistent performer and has provided brilliant width on the right wing. The full-back is often able to beat his opposing full-back and create a chance for his strikers with a dangerous cross.
James McClean
James McClean had an impressive debut season last year. His tenacious approach to the game alongside his technical skills makes him an experienced and quality selection for the left wing-back position.
Midfield
George Dobson
Summer signing George Dobson will most likely play a vital role under Parkinson this season with the former Charlton Athletic captain having over 250 League One games under his belt, he will provide important leadership in the XI.
Andy Cannon
Andy Cannon provided a great goal threat last season with five goals from midfield. The former Hull City player was a mainstay in Wrexham’s midfield last season and is expected to remain a key member of the side.
Elliot Lee
Elliot Lee is one of the stars under Parkinson. Lee has been vital in the back-to-back promotions and is one of the first names to be on the teamsheet every week. the former West Ham United man has bundles of creativity and will continue to be a threat to League One defenders in the coming season.
- READ MORE: EFL pundit says Wrexham have just made ‘real statement of intent’ in League One promotion race
Attack
Paul Mullin
Paul Mullin has been phenomenal for Wrexham. finishing as the club’s top goalscorer last year with 24 league goals, there is no doubt the manager will be looking for his forward to replicate his outstanding form.
Ollie Palmer
Ollie Palmer has been the perfect strike partner for Mullin. His strong hold-up play has been a huge asset for the Red Dragons. With the current options available to Parkinson, Palmer is likely to start and lead the line for Wrexham in the coming season.