Phil Parkinson Highlights What Wrexham Are Missing Without Josh Windass

Phil Parkinson believes Wrexham are missing Josh Windass’ clinical edge after his side’s 2-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers exposed their difficulties in front of goal.

The Red Dragons registered 23 attempts at Ewood Park but managed only one on target,as Andri Gudjohnsen scored twice to secure the hosts' victory.

Windass remains sidelined with an ankle injury sustained against Derby County earlier this month, leaving Parkinson without the forward who played an important role in Wrexham’s push for the Championship play-offs last season

Following the Blackburn defeat, Parkinson highlighted the injured forward’s ability to take decisive opportunities. As reported by The Leader, the manager acknowledged that Wrexham missed Windass’ clinical edge but insisted other players must step up in his absence.

"Josh is that player, like Gudjohnson, who the moments come and he takes them," said Parkinson

Windass’ Influence at Wrexham is key in a tough and demanding league, "The division is so tight. You don't watch games and you think one team is so much better than the other on the day.”

Windass was an important contributor as Wrexham finished seventh in the Championship last season, narrowly missing out on a play-off place. "That's what he did for us time and time again (last season). Of course, any team would miss their top scorer but while we wait for him to come back, it's like we did last week. Other players have got to step up to the plate."

Windass scored seven goals in his final eight appearances of that campaign. Among them was a free-kick against Middlesbrough on the final day, although a 2-2 draw meant Wrexham fell short of the top six. "It's the hardest thing in football, isn't it?" Referencing how hard it is to put the ball in the back of the net.

His ability to score from distance and take opportunities in tight matches offers Parkinson a different attacking option. Saturday’s defeat showed how valuable that quality can be when space is limited and opponents defend their penalty area effectively.

"That's why the strikers are the most sought after players because when a game's tight, someone's produced something which gives everybody a in the game and we just didn't have that."

Wrexham Must Find Answers. Kieffer Moore and Sam Smith both scored in the 4-1 win over Preston, showing Wrexham have players who can contribute while Windass is unavailable, but they need consistency, which is something that has let Parkinson’s side down so far this season.

Parkinson will now look to his attacking options for a response ahead of Friday’s trip to Sheffield United. The manager previously said Windass’ ankle injury was less serious than initially feared, but the latest reporting has not set a confirmed return date.