Phil Parkinson sees the match between Wrexham and Southampton at home as the ideal chance for his team to get back on track after their heavy loss to West Ham United.
The Red Dragons return to the STōK Cae Ras on Saturday following a 6-0 loss at the London Stadium, a result which ended an encouraging three-match unbeaten run. Parkinson has acknowledged the setback but is determined to prevent one damaging afternoon from defining Wrexham’s recent progress.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to get ourselves back on track,” Parkinson said.
At the start of the week, Wrexham reviewed West Ham's performance, and Parkinson said they couldn't forget the result without first working out what had gone wrong, as the coaching staff and players met on Monday and Tuesday.
Although the manager admitted that West Ham had a greater level of quality, he also recalled to his team the disciplined performances they had given in the earlier matches. When playing at Millwall Wrexham defended very well and secured a 3-0 win, while they also managed to draw 0-0 against Swansea City, holding both teams back thanks to their organisation and teamwork.
Parkinson wants his team to once again show its tight formation, unity and determination when it is not in possession. This previously led to two consecutive clean sheets before the match against West Ham, and they now need to build on that for a better performance.
Phil Parkinson and his staff looked at the teams that have caused the Saints problems, as well as those that have struggled against them. The aim has been to find out where Wrexham can create opportunities and take advantage of weaknesses in the visitors' system.
After beating Swansea 3-1 and securing a dominant 4-1 win against Bristol City, Southampton have arrived in North Wales in good form. They have not lost in their last six Championship games, though they still have no away league win this season.
Parkinson remains confident Wrexham can create chances if they execute their tactical plan correctly. He thinks that the Championship requires quick reactions since another opportunity is always coming.
“Football gives you another chance to get back out on the pitch,” Parkinson said.
There is some good news for Josh Windass and Ben Sheaf, as both players had productive weeks on the training ground, a development Parkinson said was necessary for them to improve their physical condition.
Nathan Broadhead will have to miss the game against Southampton since he strained his thigh in training. Parkinson called the injury particularly unfortunate as the Wales international had been training well before the problem occurred.
The Red Dragons need to respond to their worst defeat of the campaign, but Southampton’s recent form makes the contest difficult; their winless away record offers some encouragement for Parkinson and his Wrexham squad.
