Wrexham Set Sights On First EFL Points Against AFC Wimbledon
After defeat on the opening weekend of EFL football, Wrexham travel to AFC Wimbledon hoping to register their first League Two points of the season.
Wrexham’s opening day defeat was described as a ‘reality check’ by manager Phil Parkinson, as attention turned to the Carabao Cup against League One side Wigan Athletic on Tuesday evening.
A sold-out SToK Racecourse stadium witnessed an improved performance from the hosts, in a game which saw the home side progress to the second round following a penalty shootout.
The away side will hope to emulate their strong cup display this weekend, and will be boosted by the arrival of James McClean from Wigan Athletic for a reported £250,000. The veteran offers his new side an abundance of both experience and quality at the higher reaches of the EFL, having featured in all of Wigans’ 46 Championship matches last season.
Reds boss Phil Parkinson says it is important to select players based on their readiness, telling North Wales Live: “At this stage of the season we pick the team based on freshness and it was great for some players to get some minutes on Tuesday and get ready for the season ahead. We’ve got a big squad and it’s important to utilise it.”
In other team news for Wrexham, this weekend’s match may come too soon for the return of Aaron Hayden, with the centre back missing in midweek due to a tight groin.
There is also no date set for the return of Paul Mullin. The Reds star is now back in the UK but still recovering from the four broken ribs and punctured lung he suffered against Manchester United in preseason.
AFC Wimbledon will prove to be a tough test though, having enjoyed life at the start of the 23/24 campaign, as Johnnie Jackson’s team took a point back to South London following a 0-0 draw with Grimsby in their first League Two fixture.
The Wombles then produced a dramatic comeback against Championship Coventry City in midweek; two goals in the final six minutes sent them into the next round of the Carabao Cup lining up a tie with Premier League Chelsea.
An entertaining tie awaits as Wrexham hope to secure maximum points. The game is scheduled for Saturday 12th August, 15:00 at Plough Lane.
To stay up to date with all the latest sports news follow @DubSportss on X and Instagram – and @georgerandles on X!
