Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson has not finished in the transfer market

Wrexham’s first game back in the Football League following a 15 year absence ended in a 5-3 defeat to MK Dons at The STōK Cae Ras on Saturday.

Star striker Paul Mullin is facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering a punctured lung during the pre-season tour to America while neither of Parkinson’s two summer signings were on duty at the weekend.Centre-back Will Boyle was missing through injury while James McClean, a wide-man brought in from Wigan Athletic on Friday for an undisclosed fee, was not eligible to feature.

There is still strength in depth in a squad which led Wrexham to promotion as National League champions following a record-breaking 2022-23 campaign but Parkinson is hoping for more fresh faces.

Co-chairmen Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElleney, joined by fellow Hollywood star Hugh Jackman, saw the opening day defeat and the Reds’ boss said: “I had a good chat with them.

“The thing is with Rob and Ryan, they are the first people to come in and sit down and have a beer with me after the game.

“When we win, we have enjoyed the good times but as a manager, player and owner of a football club, it is taking the knocks and today is a knock for us.

“It is not a season-defining defeat but I had a great chat with them afterwards and we will have a good sit down this week.

“We are looking to add a couple more players before the window closes and if we do that, I am confident we have got a very strong squad.

“If we don’t, we have still got quality more than we showed today in terms of the ability on the football pitch.”

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After making 12 appearances for Wrexham since returning to the Club on March 23, Ben Foster has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 40-year-old has called time on his career during which he has had two spells at the Racecourse as well as time at Man United, West Brom and Watford.

Foster spoke with Manager Phil Parkinson after Saturday’s 5-5 draw with Swindon Town and informed him of his intention.

Foster said: “The honest truth is that my performances this season haven’t reached the level I demand of myself and I feel that now is the right time to retire.

“At the forefront of my mind when making this decision, was not only what was best for me but also the Club, and making the decision now gives the Club every opportunity to assess their options before the window closes.

“Wrexham will always have a special place in my heart.”

Manager Phil Parkinson said: “Ben has been the model professional while at Wrexham and has done everything we have asked of him.

“It takes a big person to make the decision he has and one who really understands this Football Club, with the timing of his decision.

“I am sure I speak for everyone, when thanking him for his contribution that went far beyond that one magnificent penalty save against Notts County to help us gain promotion last season.

“Wrexham AFC was a better place for having Ben Foster around the Club.”