While away from home, it`s a time for celebration for Phil Parkinson and the Wrexham squad, having successfully secured promotion to the Championship for next season. This marks their third consecutive promotion under Parkinson`s leadership, bringing the Premier League into view, although the leap from the Championship is considerably more challenging than their previous ascents.
With increased investment supporting each step up the leagues, Wrexham has adapted effectively. As players like Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer have seen less action this season, the final match offers Parkinson an opportunity to feature some players who have been instrumental in the club`s journey over the past four years. Regardless of the lineup, the atmosphere in Lincolnshire is expected to be joyful.
Match Information
- Date: Saturday, May 3
- Time: 10 a.m. ET
- Location: LNER Stadium, Lincoln, Lincolnshire
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Lincoln City +180; Draw +225; Wrexham +135
Previous Encounter
These teams last met in November at the Racecourse Ground, where Lincoln City put up a strong challenge before falling 1-0. In a match that was largely even, the difference was an own goal scored by Lincoln midfielder Tendayi Darikwa in the 67th minute, securing important points for Wrexham`s promotion campaign.
Coach`s Perspective
Manager Phil Parkinson addressed speculation about the future of players like Palmer and Mullin, clarifying their situations. He stated that everyone has contributed to the team`s success, regardless of playing time, and expressed satisfaction with the group as a whole. Parkinson confirmed that Mullin and Ollie are considered legends at the club, remain under contract for next year, and are expected to be ready for preseason. He noted Mullin`s challenge this season was partly due to a back injury, emphasizing the need to see if the striker, who consistently scored 24 or more goals in the three seasons prior to League One, can regain his top form, as goals are vital.
Championship and Beyond?
While promotion is cause for celebration, discussions about reaching the Premier League are perhaps premature. Wrexham`s immediate goal in the Championship will be survival and stability. A significant challenge for future progression is the age profile of the current squad; many key players are 30 or older, with few exceptions like Max Cleworth, Thomas O`Connor, and Lewis Burnt. This suggests the need for considerable squad evolution to continue their rise.
Rising directly from non-league football all the way to the Premier League is exceptionally rare. Sustained investment will be crucial, but being in the Championship opens avenues for strategic loan signings, allowing Wrexham to strengthen the team without excessive spending. The focus remains on consolidating their position in the new division before setting sights higher.
Predicted Lineups
Lincoln City: George Wickens, Sean Roughan, Adam Jackson, Paudie O`Connor, Tendayi Darikwa, Ethan Erhahon, Erik Ring, Ben House, Ethan Hamilton, Reeco Hackett-Fairchild, James Collins
Wrexham: Arthur Okonkwo, Dan Scarr, Max Cleworth, Eoghan O`Connell, Ryan Barnett, Elliott Lee, Mattie James, Oliver Rathbone, James McLean, Sam Smith, Paul Mullin
Match Prediction
Bringing the celebratory mood to their away fixture, Wrexham is predicted to secure a victory. The decisive goal is expected to come from their leader, Paul Mullin. Despite a challenging season personally, Mullin is anticipated to deliver a crucial performance when it matters most, helping the Dragons end their successful campaign on a high note.
Predicted Score: Lincoln City 1, Wrexham 2
Adrian Whitmore 
Benedict Kingsley