Parkinson says Wrexham blocked out criticism in 4-1 win over Preston
Phil Parkinson said Wrexham had to shut out outside noise after a 4-1 Championship win over Preston North End followed midweek criticism and a home defeat to West Bromwich Albion.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson said his side had to "block everything out" as they answered recent criticism with a 4-1 Championship victory over Preston North End at the Racecourse. The result followed a 2-1 home defeat by West Bromwich Albion in midweek and reports that pressure was building on Parkinson after a slow start to the season.
Parkinson, who said he has managed more than 1,000 games, described criticism as part of the job for managers and players alike. He added that scrutiny of Wrexham is intensified because of the club's profile, and said he treated the situation as a challenge rather than something to avoid.
First goals for the club from Joe Worrall and Ben Whiteman helped Wrexham lead 2-1 at half-time. Sam Smith and Kieffer Moore scored in the second half to complete the win over the Championship's bottom side. Parkinson said he and his staff had thought carefully about team selection and the style of play needed.
The manager also cited an extensive injury list as a significant factor in the inconsistent start, naming Max Cleworth, Nathan Broadhead and Dan Sheaf among those currently sidelined. He called it probably the worst injury spell of his time at the club and said the absent players had taken quality and football ability off the pitch.
Parkinson said he remains confident the squad can be competitive this season and that returning players will create strong competition for places. Until then, he said, the focus is on bringing the group together and finding ways to be more effective. The article did not include post-match reaction from Preston or from supporters.
The win ended a difficult week on a positive note for Wrexham and shifted attention from questions about the manager's position to the performance itself. Parkinson's response stressed squad unity and the impact of injuries rather than engaging directly with the reports about pressure.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
