Phil Parkinson has waxed lyrical about one of his Wrexham players after a recent development emerged.
The gap between the season drawing to a close and the transfer window opening can often be a quiet period for some clubs; not for Wrexham though.
Two weeks ago, Wrexham made their released/retained list public. Six players, including captain Luke Young and seasoned defender Ben Tozer, were among the departing players.
Although Phil Parkinson acknowledged that it was tough to let go of those outstanding employees, he wanted to see them succeed somewhere else because he couldn’t guarantee them consistent football playing time.
During this time, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have extended contract offers to several of their first-team players. They have also put a bid on the table for Steven Fletcher, a seasoned striker, and James McClean’s extension.
James McClean heaps praise on James McClean after triggering extension
Wrexham’s capture of McClean last summer was arguably one of the best signings any League Two club made during the window.
The 35-year-old arrived from Wigan Athletic who had just been relegated from the Championship.
Like many players who join Wrexham, McClean was sold by the project McElhenney and Reynolds were building, with his performances on the pitch reflecting his all-round qualities.
Operating as either a left wing-back or central midfielder, the versatile Irishman was a key cog in Parkinson’s promotion-winning machine and the Reds boss has now heaped praise on him.
Speaking to The Leader after McClean activated his extension, keeping him at the Racecourse for another year, Parkinson said: “I am pleased that James’ extension was activated.
“He is a key player for us and he proved to be an excellent signing with everything he offers in terms of his all-round game. His drive and determination is outstanding and that’s why he has played at a high standard for so long in his career.
“He played in the Championship last season for Wigan. He has been promoted out of League One with Wigan so he knows this division well.
“Obviously he has retired from international football. He got his 100 caps and now he can have a real focus on having a good pre-season with us and I am looking forward to working with him again next season.”
James McClean will play a key role in League One
After being described by Ben Foster as the hardest-working player he’s ever seen, it is clear that McClean’s fitness levels are that of someone in his mid-20s, not someone coming to the end of his career.
The former Sunderland wideman, as alluded to by Parkinson, will play a key role for Wrexham in League One.
Left wing-back is one of the current positions in their squad that doesn’t need instant reinforcements, with Mendy and McClean battling for that spot.
The Irishman can also slot into central midfield, giving Parkinson the option to play Mendy while including his integral cog in the side.
A summer of change will ensue in Wales, but one thing is for sure, McClean will continue to play a vital role under Parkinson’s guidance.
