PHIL PARKINSON admits Wrexham were playing catch-up in the transfer market over the summer because of how quickly the club has climbed the football pyramid and he needed “Championship-ready players” to ensure they were competitive at this level.
It has been an incredible journey since Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney completed their takeover with the Reds securing an historic three successive promotions.
Having climbed from the National League to the second tier in double quick-time, Parkinson revamped the squad over the summer for the biggest step-up yet.
A total of 13 new signings arrived at The Racecourse including Danny Ward, Josh Windass, Lewis O’Brien, Ben Sheaf, Dominic Hyam, Conor Coady, Nathan Broadhead and Nathan Moore who have all played in this division and higher.
Parkinson admits he needed players who have been there and done it so that Wrexham could compete with the likes of Leicester City and Southampton.
“Of course, we have spent money this summer but we have come into a division which clubs like Stoke, West Brom and Norwich have been building strong structures for years,” said the Reds’ boss
“They have got category one academies who are producing players so we have been playing catch-up each time we have got promoted.
“To be competitive at this level, we have had to bring in a core of Championship-ready players because as everybody knows, it is an unforgiving level.”
As well as success on the pitch, Wrexham has become a global sensation following the hit documentary series ‘Welcome to Wrexham’.
That has helped make the club an appealing proposition when Parkinson has tried to entice transfer targets to make the move to the north Wales outfit rather than go elsewhere.
“All of a sudden in League Two, Wrexham were an amazing attraction although we did fight hard for players who were above the level,” he added.
“But here (in the Championship), we have had to compete with clubs for players.
“Obviously you have got clubs with fantastic stadiums, great training facilities etc.
“We have had to make sure that players who come for talks with us understand the vision of the club and the story as well.
“You don’t have to sell it too much now but years ago, before the documentary came out, I had to really explain the direction of the club but it is out there for everybody to see.”