Wrexham boss praises Harambee Stars defender ahead of key weekend fixture

Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson has praised Harambee Stars defender Zak Vyner of his versatility, a trait that has seen him play more regularly in midfield since signing with the club in January.

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Parkinson, speaking ahead of The Red Dragons’ Championship fixture against Sheffield United on Saturday, 21 March, said he had been so far impressed by Vyner’s contribution in the team, which had ticked all the boxes the side considered before prising him away from Bristol City.

“Zak's a good player,” the Englishman told the club media on Thursday, 19 March. “It's been a big ask of him initially to go into the midfield, but he's adapted well.”

Vyner, who is set to make his long-awaited debut for Harambee Stars later this month, spent much of his time at Bristol as a defender, but would regularly slot into the left side of midfield.

Since joining Wrexham for an undisclosed fee, the 28-year-old has constantly been deployed in midfield, including his last three starts in the Championship, and in the FA Cup tie against Chelsea.

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Speaking of the English-born center back’s ability, Parkinson added: “We knew he was a versatile player, we do our homework on players before they arrive at the club. He's got good leadership qualities, and we're pleased with his contribution.”

Going into the weekend, Wrexham finds itself just outside the promotion playoffs picture only on goal difference, paying the price of a costly 3-1 defeat to Watford on Tuesday, 17 March.

Parkinson is on Saturday demanding the best from everyone at Wrexham, as they seek to topple The Blades, and get back into the playoffs mix before the international break.

“This weekend is about one almighty effort from all the squad, all the staff, all the supporters,” Parkinson said.

“We had amazing support down at Watford on Tuesday, and this game takes us into a two-week break. It’s right up there I feel, in terms of the importance of games, not just this season, but since I've been here, and it's a big effort from everybody.

I'll always include the supporters in that because Bramall Lane is an amazing arena to play at. Their supporters will be vociferously behind the team, and I know our supporters are going to play their part.

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"As a team and as a staff, we've got to be positive every time we step over the white line, and if we play like we did in the second half against Watford, we'll have a great chance," he added.

The game kicks off at 6:00 PM Kenyan time.