Mark Howard explains ‘different’ role under Phil Parkinson after new Wrexham contact extension

Wrexham goalkeeper Mark Howard has been a consistent part of Phil Parkinon’s squad since the 56-year-old arrived at the Racecourse.

Howard may not always be Parkinson’s number-one goalkeeper regularly but remains key to how the English coach has built his squad.

Since Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds completed their Hollywood takeover of the Red Dragons, they have trusted and supported Phil Parkinson with improving the Wrexham playing squad.

Several big-name players have arrived through the door at the Racecourse including Paul Mullin, Steven Fletcher, Elliot Lee, and James McClean.

The Wrexham boss has often turned to his bench to rotate and create competition for places in the starting 11.

Players like Sam Dalby, Luke Bolton, and Anthony Forde optimize the importance of a strong squad. Mark Howard has been key to the goalkeeping department and he has played his part in being a leader on and off the pitch.

During Wrexham’s push for promotion from the National League, Howard impressed Parkinson with his selfless character. Howard at the time was a regular name on the team sheet but Parkinson was presented with an opportunity to sign former Premier League goalkeeper Ben Foster.

Parkinson spoke with Howard about this opportunity and the goalkeeper understood that Foster could enhance the chance of being promoted back to the Football League, so took a reduced role in the squad.