Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson is set to split his squad into two different sides again when the Reds face Manchester United at Helsinki Olympic Stadium on Saturday as preparations for the Championship season continue.
Parkinson used two separate XIs during last weekend’s goalless draw with Wisła Kraków and confirmed he plans to continue that approach before the squad heads to the United States next week.
The focus remains firmly on building fitness rather than chasing results, with Wrexham looking to increase the workload for every player after two and a half weeks of pre-season training.
Parkinson was pleased with the opening workout against Wisła Kraków but stressed that getting minutes into the squad remains the overriding objective at this stage of pre-season.
“Yeah, we’re looking to kind of give everybody some minutes this weekend. I think that’s before we get to America, we’d like a reasonable base of football in the lads’ legs of where they need to be.”
Speaking to The Leader, Parkinson explained that the profile of this summer’s fixtures can make it appear Wrexham are further advanced than they actually are.
“You still have to realise it’s only the second friendly as well. You’re not going to push people too hard. That game was always a big game profile-wise for that first one, but we came through it great.”
Wrexham drew 0-0 with Wisła Kraków in Poland last weekend, with the squad split across both halves to ensure as many players as possible gained valuable minutes before the trip to Finland.
Managing the squad carefully
Parkinson confirmed there will again be players who miss out as they continue individual recovery programmes, although he is not concerned by the minor issues carried over from last season.
Josh Windass has been managing a slight calf problem, while Max Cleworth has been eased back after an Achilles issue.
Parkinson said both players are making positive progress, with Cleworth returning to full training.
“We’re gradually getting everybody there. I feel the lads are enjoying the training this week and there’s always something different happening and something to look forward to.”
He also revealed that Wrexham expect to take a strong squad to Helsinki, even if a small number of players remain behind to continue their rehabilitation.
A valuable test before America
Manchester United provide another high-quality examination before Wrexham fly to the United States for the next stage of their pre-season programme. Parkinson expects United to have several senior players available despite some returning later following international duty.
The Wrexham boss believes the fixture is another opportunity to continue building match fitness while testing his players against elite opposition.
“The main thing for both teams is the game has got the right intensity level and there’s a competitive element to it without obviously no one wants to pick up any injuries.”
While the occasion will attract plenty of attention, Parkinson’s priority remains unchanged. He wants every player to leave Helsinki with more minutes in their legs and another step taken towards being ready for Wrexham’s return to Championship action.
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