“Invest in Another Half a Dozen Good Players” – Ben Foster Weighs in Wrexham’s Chances of Promotion in League One

The transition from National League to League Two went well for Wrexham AFC. But, League One is a different proposition altogether and a ‘big test’ per Phil Parkinson. The squad just finished their party in Las Vegas and a brutal preseason awaits. But, do the Red Dragons have what it takes to impress in the higher division next season? Former goalkeeper Ben Foster believes the chances of the side doing a back-to-back-to-back is not bad.

On the Fozcast podcast, Ben Foster rated Wrexham’s chances in League One. He said, “ I think they’ll be fine. I really do think they’ll be fine. I don’t know if there’s ever been a back to back to back promotion before but I would say the odds on Wrexham doing it are not bad.” Foster added that Ryan Reynold’s side will eventually make it to the championship, but not with the current squad.

The goalkeeper explained, “I think they’re going to invest in another four or five maybe half a dozen good players. Solid people, solid professionals that are going to raise the standards just a little bit more.” The Red Dragons have been linked with a whole host of names, none bigger than Jamie Vardy. Vardy is touted to be the ideal partner for Paul Mullin. Moreover, the club chief recently admitted that his age wouldn’t be an issue.

Another priority for the club is Arsenal star Arthur Okonkwo. On loan from Arsenal last season, the goalkeeper leapfrogged Mark Howard to be the #1 goalkeeper. Phil Parkinson admitted that Wrexham is doing ‘everything‘ to bring him back. While there is a lot of excitement regarding potential signings, the Wrexham faithful was handed a shock as a number of players bid farewell recently.

8 players including a National League hero released by Wrexham

The highs of the promotion didn’t last long at Wrexham. Soon after, club 8 released players, from the first team and at the academy level. The departed stars include goalkeeper Rob Lainton, and defenders Ben Tozer, Jordan Tunnicliffe, Aaron Hayden, and Callum McFadzean. Midfielder Luke Young and youngsters Owen Cushion and Dan Davies also exited the Red Dragons. Yet, the case of Ben Tozer surprised everybody.

Ben Tozer is a prominent leadership figure in the locker room. This season, he was an important part of the squad and played in 29 games. The Welsh side conceded just 52 goals in 46 games and Tozer was the defensive lynchpin. His form was impressive in last season’s National League campaign and he was voted into the TOTY as well. Hence, with the release of Tozer, is Wrexham targeting a defensive reinforcement? That seems to be the only logical explanation.