Ben Whiteman Delivers Standout Wrexham Performance Against Former Club Preston North End

Wrexham midfielder Ben Whiteman delivered one of his strongest performances since joining the club, scoring and providing an assist in Saturday’s 4-1 Championship victory over former employers Preston North End.

The 30-year-old faced boos from travelling Preston supporters after his controversial summer departure from Deepdale. However, Whiteman responded with an influential display at the Racecourse Ground, helping Phil Parkinson’s side secure their third league victory of the season.

The result lifted Wrexham to 14th in the Championship table, three points outside the play-off positions.

Wrexham took the lead in the 31st minute when Joe Worrall headed home his first goal for the club. Preston responded five minutes later through Alfie Devine, whose equaliser briefly threatened to increase the pressure on Parkinson’s side.

Whiteman restored Wrexham’s advantage in the 42nd minute after Danny Imray’s cross was only partially cleared by the Preston defence. The midfielder collected the loose ball near the edge of the penalty area before directing a low effort into the bottom corner.

It was Whiteman’s first goal since joining Wrexham and came against the club he had captained before moving to North Wales. The midfielder celebrated by blowing a kiss to the Preston supporters, after facing criticism throughout the opening half.

Whiteman continued to influence proceedings after the interval, delivering the corner from which Sam Smith headed Wrexham into a 3-1 lead in the 59th minute.

Kieffer Moore added a fourth shortly after, completing a convincing win for the hosts.

Whiteman has scored one goal and provided two assists in 923 minutes of Championship football this season. His contribution against Preston demonstrated his importance to Wrexham’s midfield, combining defensive responsibilities with attacking involvement.

After the victory, Parkinson praised Whiteman’s performance and how he responded to the reaction from his former supporters. The Wrexham manager described the display as possibly the midfielder’s most complete since arriving at the club.

Parkinson also highlighted Whiteman’s attitude and commitment, expressing his satisfaction at seeing the midfielder make such an important contribution. Following the win, Whiteman acknowledged the reception he received from Preston supporters.

The midfielder said he kept positive memories of his former club but accepted supporters would have their own opinions about his departure. His performance came at an important time for Wrexham, who suffered a 2-1 home defeat to West Bromwich Albion four days earlier.

Wrexham now travel to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, hoping to build on their improved attacking performance.