There is one position at Wrexham that Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds must resolve this summer.
Wrexham have the sixth strongest defence in League Two. The Reds have conceded 48 goals in their 39 matches played, and while that isn’t the best record, they’ve seen big improvements recently.
Phil Parkinson‘s men haven’t conceded more than once in a match in their last 10, it’s form that has coincided with the resurgence of Max Cleworth in the starting XI, playing ninety minutes in each of those games.
Cleworth is quickly maturing into a brilliant defender at this level, and while he still has a lot to learn, his progress is being aided by the two titans next to him, Eoghan O’Connell and Will Boyle.
The form of that trio has helped transform Wrexham into a watertight defence, last conceding twice in a game 12 matches ago – a 3-1 defeat to Salford City at the start of February.
For most of the campaign, Parkinson didn’t have a settled back three, but the former Bradford City boss has reaped the benefits of trusting the same personnel.
As a result, several defensive talents have missed out on the starting XI as many see their contracts expire in the summer.
The players out of contract at Wrexham
Eight Wrexham players see contracts expire in the summer, including defenders Ben Tozer, Aaron Hayden, Jordan Tunnicliffe and Callum McFadzean.
With Hayden, Tunnicliffe and McFadzean making a combined 31 appearances between them this term, it looks unlikely any of that trio will see their contracts renewed.
Wrexham have ambitions of playing League One football and a clear-out will be required in the summer, perhaps waving goodbye to the ageing Tozer, who has been a great servant to the club, but wouldn’t cut it in the third tier.
Despite captaining the side in 18 of his 28 appearances in League Two, Tozer’s involvement has decreased as the season has transpired, playing just 48 minutes of the last 10 games.
It means that, while the Reds look well covered defensively, the defence could need a complete reshape in the summer.
Wrexham may need defensive improvements
Wrexham’s five strikers, including Paul Mullin, Ollie Palmer and Jack Marriott are all tied down with contracts till 2025 or later which means reinforcements in that position will be made if a player is sold.
As for the defence, it looks as though several of the names listed above will be allowed to depart on a free transfer, leaving Parkinson with potentially just three options to choose from.
Parkinson’s current starting three of O’Connell, Cleworth and Boyle are unlikely to go anywhere, but if promotion is achieved, improvements will be needed.
The quality of teams in League One is a different ball game and added strength will be required defensively for the Reds to compete.
Defence, as it stands, is the position that will cause McElhenney, Parkinson and Reynolds the biggest headaches this summer.