Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson denies Max Cleworth’s transfer links, saying an injury ruled out the defender’s availability in the Cup contest against Nottingham.
It’s been 5/5 wins for Wrexham lately, as the law of averages still awaits catching up. And more than pleasant is that it’s happened in the FA Cup now, after an invincible Championship streak might have many in doubt.
With more than 120+ minutes of footballing action and a nerve-biting win on penalties, fans couldn’t have asked for more. While Wrexham emerged as the deserving winner, even Dragon fans wouldn’t have thought so after looking at the teamsheet.
Even though Wrexham fans have grown accustomed to Phil Parkinson’s multiple changes, the starting XI missing 2 sure-shot starters raised questions.
First, about Matty James’ exclusion, after the midfielder had been the Derby hero and secondly, on Max Cleworth’s miss. Giving the 34-year-old a rest still validates the concerns, but academy graduate Cleworth’s absence from the squad felt strategic.
Needless to say, Wrexham had their fair struggles in the 23-year-old’s absence, nearly succumbing to a second-half Nottingham comeback. But while all this was happening, the bigger concern for fans remained Cleworth’s transfer links.
After an impeccable first half of the season, Max Cleworth has become one of the most valuable Championship assets. With the January window known for Premier League clubs hunting down second-division stars, Cleworth’s timely exclusion hinted at a Top Flight switch incoming.
Phil Parkinson breaks the ice on Cleworth’s AVFC links
Ever since the January transfer window kicked off, Max Cleworth has been a rumoured name in Wrexham’s fan forums. Not just for his consistent performances, but also due to an impending switch to Aston Villa.
Recently, The AVFC Faithful conveyed Wrexham fans’ exact feeling, quoting: “A lot of Wrexham fans think Max Cleworth is off to avfc….”
From a rational perspective, given Cleworth’s surging development at the Racecourse, fans can’t be blamed for believing such rumours. In fact, if any Wrexham player fits a PL club’s roster, it’s Cleworth and surely him.
A 23-year-old who’s been impressing week-in and week-out at the Racecourse, Cleworth attracts a lot of clubs. While seeing him change sides would hurt fans, he could be a solid 8-figure signing for some of the top clubs, including Aston Villa.
Thankfully, despite the prevailing rumours, Max Cleworth to Aston Villa isn’t happening any time soon. Recently, Phil Parkinson denied all such possibilities while explaining Cleworth’s matchday absence.
As quoted by RobRyanRed, Parkinson opined on Cleworth’s links, saying: “No I haven’t heard that at all. Max is very much part of our plans. He had a problem with his groin.”
Max Cleworth staying is Wrexham’s biggest win from yesterday
Sounds exaggerated, but most would agree that Max Cleworth’s prolonged stay means everything for Wrexham. Definitely, the FA Cup win matters, but the 23-year-old means more for the future.
That’s because, despite a good, solid roster, Wrexham’s centre-back options are still limited. Except for Max Cleworth, the Dragons would be left with just three dependable options in Scarr, Doyle, and Hyam.
Agreed, Lewis Brunt & Conor Coady can be called if needed, but they both lie far down in Parkinson’s trust. Well, if anything, the Cup knockout yesterday delved deeper into Cleworth’s importance.
Though Wrexham’s overall defensive performance stood decent, it was clear that Scarr needs more rhythm. While Doyle and Hyam were exceptional, Cleworth’s absence played a crucial role in Nottingham’s late fightback.
Glad Wrexham were able to win in the penalties, but Phil Parkinson would need to brainstorm to make the current back three run in fluid sync. Either way, let’s hope Cleworth returns soon and slots in his usual lineup spot.
