Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has expressed strong support for proposals to expand the Championship play-off system, arguing that the division is packed with clubs capable of thriving in the Premier League. The current promotion shootout, which involves four teams, could be increased to six from the next season, with a decision expected at an extraordinary general meeting next month.
Competitive Division Fuels Expansion Debate
Parkinson, whose Wrexham side currently sits sixth in the Championship, emphasised the incredible tightness and competitiveness of the league. He pointed out that numerous teams are in contention for promotion, highlighting the depth of quality across the division. "It's so competitive, just look at this division, it's incredible," Parkinson stated. "There's so many teams in contention and we're one of them."
Premier League Potential Abounds
The Wrexham boss dismissed concerns about a potential dilution in quality, a worry reportedly held by some in the Premier League. Instead, he cited examples like Sunderland, who have successfully established themselves in the top flight after promotion. "They've spent the money from the TV revenue wisely, they've got themselves in a great position and it shows it can be done," Parkinson noted.
He further argued that the Championship hosts several clubs with massive support bases, potentially larger than some current Premier League teams. "Looking at the Championship there's a lot of potentially huge clubs in this division - probably, in terms of support, bigger than some teams that are in there at the moment."
FA Cup Focus Amid Promotion Push
Parkinson also addressed the balance between cup commitments and league ambitions, as his team prepares to face third-placed Ipswich in the FA Cup fourth round. He views the cup run as a positive distraction, not a hindrance to their promotion goals. "It is a distraction but I think it's a welcome one," he said. "We speak about the magic of the FA Cup so when the games come I want us to enjoy it. I want us to go out there with real positivity about our performance."
Wrexham aims to reach the FA Cup fifth round for the first time since the 1996-97 season, adding an extra layer of excitement to their campaign. Parkinson's comments come as he was recently honoured with the Freedom of the borough, following the club's remarkable rise through the English football leagues.
