Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson (Image: Gemma Thomas)
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson (Image: Gemma Thomas)
DON GOODMAN believes Phil Parkinson ‘deserves a statue’ at The Racecourse if he can guide Wrexham to the Premier League.
The Reds finished runners-up in League One this season to secure an historic third successive promotion.
Back in the Championship following a 43-year absence, Wrexham are only one level away from the top-flight - a division that the north Wales club has never plied their trade - and EFL pundit Goodman says that would deserve lasting recognition.
Former striker Goodman, who played for the likes of West Brom, Sunderland and Wolves, told FruityKing: "I don't think he'd expect one just yet. I don't want to disrespect Phil because what he's achieved is nothing short of phenomenal.
"Mark Robins hasn't got one outside Coventry yet. So, with respect, I think you probably need to achieve just a little bit more for a statue."
Wrexham have been linked with a host of players including Manchester United centre-back Jonny Evans but Goodman says that signing would not suit either party.
"Jonny Evans is 37 years old, has only started three Premier League games all season and hasn't played since November," he said. "Could his body handle the rigours of Championship football?
"He may be able to play as a centre-half, and he's had an amazing career, but I'd be surprised if that's a move which happens.
"I couldn't see him playing week in, week out, despite him being a big name which would go well with the current glitz and glamour at Wrexham.
"All in all, I'm not sure it would be the best move for all parties involved. "
Callum Robinson is another player thought to be on Wrexham's radar but Goodman feels the striker may have better options than joining the Reds this summer
"There are a lot of factors for Callum Robinson to consider regarding a move to Wrexham and a rivalry Cardiff may have with Wrexham is one of them," he said.
"There might also be clubs that are further along in their journey who come in for Callum, who had a good season despite it just petering out towards the end.
"There will be plenty of options for Wrexham, while Callum Robinson himself is bound to have plenty of options on the table to discuss with his representatives this summer."
Prolific striker Paul Mullin fell down the pecking order at Wrexham and last featured in the league towards the end of January.
Goodman doesn't think the 30-year-old, who remains under contract at The Racecourse, will play first-team football in the Championship for Wrexham and he has a decision to make.
"I would love to think that Wrexham will give Paul Mullin the opportunity to decide whether he wants to move on or not," said Goodman.
"Some people see the number three at the beginning of an age and think 'That player is finished' but it's not the case.
"At 30, I was in my physical prime and had the benefit from the experience of playing for a long time, so Paul Mullin shouldn't be on the decline.
"He'll want to play first-team football but it's very doubtful he'll get that at Wrexham in the Championship after starting just nine League One games last year.
"Paul has a choice to make and I just hope Wrexham give him the opportunity to make it himself."