Wrexham's star forward, Josh Windass, will be unavailable for the highly anticipated pre-season encounter against Leeds United, as he continues to recover from a calf injury. The 32-year-old athlete, who was a significant scorer for Wrexham in his debut season with 17 goals, has not participated in the team's initial summer fixtures against Wisla Krakow and Manchester United, despite being part of the 28-player contingent traveling to the United States.
Coach Phil Parkinson confirmed the unfortunate news, expressing disappointment over Windass's setback but acknowledging it as an inherent part of the sport. Despite this key absence, the team remains focused on its development and progression. Wrexham has already demonstrated promising form during their pre-season, securing a goalless draw against Polish powerhouse Wisla Krakow and achieving a notable 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Helsinki, thanks to Sam Smith's early goal. Parkinson is keen to carry this momentum and positive performance into their match against Daniel Farke's Leeds side.
The team's demanding U.S. tour will also see them face Liverpool at New York's iconic Yankee Stadium on July 30, followed by a game against Parkinson's former club, Sunderland, in Chester, Pennsylvania, on August 2. Even with their history of international tours, including Australia and New Zealand, Parkinson emphasizes that the team does not take these opportunities for granted. He highlighted the excellent training facilities and the overall privilege of being able to bring the team, especially new members, to such a grand stage, fostering a positive and forward-looking attitude among the squad.
The spirit of resilience and collective strength shines through in Wrexham's approach to their pre-season challenges. Despite individual setbacks, the focus remains firmly on teamwork and continuous improvement. This journey is not just about competition; it's about growing together, embracing new experiences, and striving for excellence, reflecting the true essence of sportsmanship and determination.
