Paul Mullin and Elliot Lee are Wrexham’s stars, but two players go under the radar at the Racecourse.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson relies on Mullin and Lee to be the difference in a result. The 29-year-old talisman was runner-up in the League Two goalscoring charts with 24 goals.
Meanwhile, the attacking midfielder was also in good form by being involved in over 20 goals for the club. The former West Ham United player scored 16 goals and assisted on six occasions.
The Red Dragons manager will be aware that several players in his squad probably don’t get enough plaudits for their work in his side.
The former Sunderland boss likes to play with three centre-backs and two flying wing-backs. This formation puts a big emphasis on the wing-backs to create attacking opportunities but also to be able to cover the ground and be solid defensively. In attack they provide the width, stretching the pitch and forcing gaps to appear.
The likes of Mullin and Lee can then take advantage to play intricate passes to create a dangerous attack.
Therefore, two players who are key in following Parkinson’s structure are Ryan Barnett and Jacob Mendy.
Jacob Mendy and Ryan Barnett key to Phil Parkinson’s system
Jacob Mendy
Mendy has been inconsistent during his time at the Racecourse. However, he can be a dangerous option to have in Parkinson’s squad.
The 26-year-old Gambian is more suited to the attacking side of the role. He is more confident at taking defenders on and trying to provide a cross to his teammates.
Mendy’s flaws appear to be in his own half. The former Boreham Wood gem is not as impressive with players running at him. Albeit, Mendy has been able to handle himself due to his physical presence.
Parkinson may well look to improve in this area of the squad, but, Mendy should remain in the squad due to his athletic profile. He offers Parkinson something a little different and does get involved in the attacking play.
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Ryan Barnett
Barnett suits the former Bolton manager’s system perfectly.
The former Shrewsbury Town talent is a danger for most opponents on the right wing.
The 24-year-old is able to progress the play with his ball-carrying abilities and technical skills. Traditionally a winger, Barnett is able to beat his defensive opposition and provide a cross for the likes of Ollie Palmer and veteran Steven Fletcher.
Last season, the flying wing-back was a reliable option for the Red Dragons boss. He will be hoping he has room for development and remains a key part of this squad.
Last season, Barnett had six goal involvements in League Two, scoring on two occasions and providing four assists to his teammates.
Luke Bolton is another strong option
Former Salford City player Luke Bolton could provide strong competition for the right wing, with the wing-back still needing to prove his worth under Parkinson.
The 24-year-old signed for the North Wales club in January for an undisclosed fee.
He has impressed when given the chance with his ability to beat a defender. However, he has not provided many goal contributions with only one assist in a Wrexham shirt.
Before leaving Salford mid-season, Bolton produced five assists, which shows he is capable of competing for the position at the Racecourse.
Parkinson will be expecting Bolton, Barnett, and Mendy to show their worth and provide the quality he needs in a key position for his tactical system.