Wrexham AFC defender Conor Coady has laid out the club's ambitious vision to challenge the Championship hierarchy, despite suffering a narrow defeat to Southampton in their opening match of the season.
The Welsh side, fresh from back-to-back promotions under Hollywood ownership, fell 1-0 to the Saints at St Mary's but remain undeterred in their quest to establish themselves as a force in England's second tier.
No Fear Mentality
Coady, the experienced former Wolves and Everton centre-back, told reporters: "We're not here just to make up the numbers. This club has huge momentum, and we believe we can compete with anyone."
The 31-year-old acknowledged Southampton's quality but insisted Wrexham would learn quickly from the encounter: "They're a good side with Premier League experience, but we showed we can match them for large periods. That's the standard we need to reach consistently."
Disrupting the Established Order
Wrexham's rapid rise through the football pyramid has captured global attention, with owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney transforming the club's fortunes since their 2021 takeover.
Coady believes this underdog mentality could prove crucial: "There's something special building here. We might be newcomers, but we've got the quality and belief to upset some of the bigger clubs."
The defender pointed to the team's remarkable FA Cup run last season as evidence of their capacity to compete against higher-ranked opposition.
Long-Term Vision
Manager Phil Parkinson has assembled a squad blending experienced Football League campaigners with promising young talent, a strategy Coady fully endorses:
- Proven Championship quality in key positions
- Hungry players with point to prove
- Unparalleled fan support creating fortress atmosphere
"The gaffer's built something special here," Coady added. "We know it won't happen overnight, but the foundations are there for sustained success."
With 45 games remaining in their debut Championship campaign, Wrexham's players and staff remain bullish about their prospects of continuing their fairytale rise.
