James McClean ‘still in disbelief’ at Ollie Rathbone transfer as ‘significant’ Wrexham outlay pays dividends
Wrexham fans can celebrate another away win this weekend after seeing Phil Parkinson’s side pick up a 2-0 victory at Northampton Town.
February was always going to be a huge month for Wrexham after defeat to Stevenage on January 28.
EFL Trophy commitments mean that Wrexham barely have a break this month but Phil Parkinson should be delighted with the results so far.
Victories at Crawley Town and Port Vale were backed up by an EFL Trophy win over Bolton Wanderers, making it three in a row in all competitions.
Wrexham added to that tally on Saturday afternoon with Sam Smith and Ollie Rathbone finding the net in a 2-0 win at Northampton Town.
Away trips have been a problem for Wrexham this season but that’s now three away wins in a row in all competitions.
Ollie Rathbone reacts to Wrexham win
Smith joined Wrexham from Reading in January and seeing him grab his first goal for the club was a major boost.
Parkinson will be looking for Smith to gain momentum after that first goal whilst he must be delighted with midfielder Rathbone once again.
Wrexham paid a ‘significant’ fee for Rathbone, luring him away from Rotherham United back in August.
After a relatively slow start to life at the STōK Cae Ras, Rathbone has now become one of the first names on the Wrexham teamsheet.
Saturday’s goal was Rathbone’s fourth of the season in League One and sent a brief message to fans after the 2-0 win.
‘Town away… I love it, oooooft’ said Rathbone as he celebrated another crucial victory in Wrexham’s promotion push.
James McClean message to Ollie Rathbone
Wrexham players responded with Ryan Barnett, George Dobson and Steven Fletcher all loving what they saw from Rathbone.
New signing Smith and defender Dan Scarr joined in whilst James McClean offered perhaps the most telling praise of all.
‘Still in disbelief we managed to sign you’ said McClean, marvelling at the midfielder’s continued excellence.
That is no doubt a view shared by many Wrexham fans around the world right now with Rathbone continuing to shine.
Rotherham decided to cash in on Rathbone after their relegation from the Championship and Wrexham were more than happy to pounce.
The Millers underwent a huge rebuild under Steve Evans but sit 14th in the League One table after a mixed season.
Some Rotherham fans may now be left wishing for Rathbone’s never-ending energy in midfield, but their loss is certainly Wrexham’s gain.
