Although not playing at home, Wrexham and manager Phil Parkinson are in a celebratory mood, having secured their promotion to the Championship for the upcoming season. This marks Parkinson`s impressive third consecutive promotion with the team, bringing the Premier League potentially into view, though the step up to the Championship is significantly more challenging than their previous promotions.
Their ascent has been supported by increased investment with each league climb, enabling Wrexham to evolve their squad. With key players like Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer featuring less this season, it will be interesting to see how Parkinson selects his side for the final match. This fixture could provide an opportunity to acknowledge some players who have been integral to the team`s journey over the past four years. Regardless of the lineup, it promises to be a festive occasion in Lincolnshire.
Here`s what to know ahead of the match:
Match Details & Odds
- Date: Saturday, May 3 | Time: 10 a.m. ET
- Location: LNER Stadium — Lincoln, Lincolnshire
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Lincoln City +180; Draw +225; Wrexham +135
Last Meeting
These teams last met in November, a match where Lincoln City put up a strong performance before ultimately losing 1-0 at the Racecourse Ground. In what was largely an even contest, the deciding goal came from an own goal conceded by midfielder Tendayi Darikwa in the 67th minute, securing valuable points for Wrexham`s promotion push.
Coach`s Comments
Addressing recent speculation regarding the futures of Palmer and Mullin, manager Phil Parkinson clarified their contractual situation. He praised the contribution of every player to the team`s success, regardless of playing time, stating, “Mulls and Ollie will always be legends at this club for what they`ve done. They`re under contract next year and they`ll be back in preseason ready to go again.”
Considering Paul Mullin`s season was impacted by a back injury, it`s logical for Wrexham to hope he can regain his peak form in preseason. Given his record of scoring 24 or more goals in each of the three seasons before League One, his goal-scoring ability is a valuable asset they will want to utilize in the Championship.
Premier League Aspirations?
Talk of reaching the Premier League is quite premature. The immediate challenge is surviving in the Championship. A significant hurdle for continued progress is the current squad`s age profile, with many key players being 30 or older (excluding Max Cleworth, Thomas O`Connor, and Lewis Burnt). This suggests a considerable squad overhaul will likely be necessary if the team`s upward trajectory is to continue.
This situation is understandable for a team rising from the National League, as few players make the entire journey from non-league to the top flight. Investment remains crucial, but being in the Championship allows Wrexham to strategically use shrewd loan signings to bolster the squad without needing massive transfer fees. The primary objective for their inaugural Championship season will be maintaining their position in the division and building stability from there.
Predicted Lineups
Lincoln City: George Wickens, Sean Roughan, Adam Jackson, Paudie O`Connor, Tendayi Darikwa, Ethan Erhahon, Erik Ring, Ben House, Ethan Hamilton, Reeco Hackett-Fairchild, James Collins
Wrexham: Arthur Okonkwo, Dan Scarr, Max Cleworth, Eoghan O`Connell, Ryan Barnett, Elliott Lee, Mattie James, Oliver Rathbone, James McLean, Sam Smith, Paul Mullin
Prediction
Carrying their celebratory mood on the road, Wrexham is likely to secure a victory, potentially powered by a goal from their talisman Paul Mullin. Despite facing a challenging personal season, Mullin is expected to perform when it counts, helping the Dragons conclude their remarkable campaign on a high note.
Prediction: Lincoln City 1, Wrexham 2
