Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson has explained how the side plans to play Manchester United at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium on Saturday and bravery with the ball and discipline when not in possession are key.
It is Wrexham’s second pre-season test after having drawn 0-0 with Wisła Kraków in a match earlier this week. It also serves as preparation for another season in the Championship.
Parkinson was emphatic in saying that while this is important, preparation is key and he expects his team to make the most of playing in this match to gain fitness and structure and be confident when playing against top-class sides.
Talking before the game, Parkinson spoke to The Leader saying that Wrexham do not simply go to Finland just to keep United in check.
“We’re not just going into these games to stop the opposition. We’re looking to play ourselves and express ourselves and try and give them problems.”
This serves as Parkinson’s intended message. Wrexham will have to give credit to United’s qualities; however, they should trust themselves on the pitch when they get the ball. The manager also stressed the importance of out-of-possession play from Wrexham.
“The out-of-possession stuff becomes really important against the better quality teams.”
Against a quality team, even a small error in terms of spacing or focus could be punishe
KrakĂłw draw provided a solid starting point
The Wrexham squad drew their opening pre-season encounter with Wisła Kraków 0-0, as Arthur Okonkwo saved a penalty shot, and Kieffer Moore and Lewis Brunt had significant opportunities during the clash.
Parkinson was happy with the exercise and the amount of time played by the team. He used two different teams throughout the game, focusing mainly on developing the players for the Championship games.
“At this early stage of pre-season, the first couple of weeks, the fitness element overrides anything really because we’ve got to get the lads prepared for a Championship season.”
While a clean sheet was useful at this point, the Helsinki game will put more pressure on Wrexham’s defensive organization and serve as a better test on how effective they can play under pressure.
This particular match is part of the larger schedule, which includes Liverpool, Leeds United and Sunderland as well. The level of opposition gives Parkinson multiple chances to examine his squad in difficult circumstances.
There are some players who have returned late after participating in the World Cup, such as Libby Cacace and Dom Hyam. Some others have been managed carefully due to minor fitness problems, such as Josh Windass and Max Cleworth.
Nevertheless, Parkinson believes he will be taking a strong squad to Helsinki, where he expects Manchester United to also field some seniors despite late return of some internationals.
For Wrexham, the real gauge of progress will not be the result itself. It will be their ability to remain organized, use the ball confidently and take another step closer to the Championship season.
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