Wrexham head into their EFL Trophy clash away at Port Vale knowing that this represents their last realistic chance of silverware this season.
Wrexham sit eight points behind leaders Birmingham in League One with the Blues having played two games less, therefore the EFL Trophy is now Phil Parkinson’s only realistic shot at a trophy this season.
Promotion is the main aim for the Red Dragons however, the EFL Trophy represents a chance to win a trophy at Wembley.
Parkinson is expected to make changes for Wrexham’s tie with Port Vale and looking ahead to the rest of the season, it is important that one player is given some minutes in order to be match fit when he is inevitably called upon.
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Jacob Mendy should start for Wrexham against Port Vale in EFL Trophy last-16
Jacob Mendy has struggled for first team football this season having made just seven appearances in all competitions. The versatile left sided player has been an integral part of Wrexham’s rise through the divisions but has found opportunities limited in League One.
However, James McClean looked fatigued in Wrexham’s win over Crawley and therefore Parkinson may have to call upon Mendy in the weeks to come.
McClean has played 31 times already this season at the age of 35, therefore Parkinson needs to ensure that Mendy is up to speed should the club captain need a rest or pick up an injury.
According to the Mirror, Mendy was once messaged by Spanish football expert Guillem Balague following the left back’s moment in the spotlight during Boreham Wood’s incredible FA Cup run in 2022.
What Jacob Mendy would bring to Wrexham’s team
He began his career at Atletico Madrid’s academy and Mendy was recently handed a new contract by the club until the end of the 2025-26 season.
The Gambia international has struggled to make an impact after achilles tendon surgery in the summer but if he can get back to his best, Wrexham know the qualities he can bring to the side.
A strong and powerful athlete, Mendy is dominant in the tackle and can drive forward from the left hand side with pace and purpose.
For a defensive-minded player, the Gambian also possesses a high-quality ball-striking technique, which has meant he has chipped in with a number of goals in his Wrexham career.
A fit and firing Jacob Mendy can only be a positive option for Parkinson to have in his squad but he needs help in order to return to that fitness. Starting him against Port Vale begins that process.
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