Parkinson lauds Wrexham captain McClean

James McClean won 103 caps in an 11-year senior international career with the Republic of Ireland

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has hailed the “leadership qualities” of captain James McClean.

McClean, 35, has been given the captaincy following the summer departures of previous skippers Ben Tozer and Luke Young.

Parkinson said the former Republic of Ireland midfielder also thrived on the expectations at Hollywood-owned Wrexham.

“James has got the armband,” Parkinson said.

“Like a lot of managers say when they get asked questions about captains, we have a group of senior players whom I speak to.

“James is at the forefront of that because he’s got great experience and has got real leadership qualities, not just on Saturdays, but during the week in training.

“It’s great to have a player of Jimmy’s experienced, who has captained his country, leading Wrexham.

“We’ve got players like Jimmy and Fletch [forward Steven Fletcher] who have played in very high profile games throughout their careers.

“That’s the certain level of player we need to bring to the club who thrive on the expectation here at the club.

“James McClean loves that. The bigger the game the better Jimmy’s going to play.”

Wrexham are currently fourth in League One after home wins over Wycombe Wanderers and Reading and goalless draw at Bolton Wanderers.

Parkinson’s side, who travel to seventh placed Peterborough United on Saturday, added: “When the fixtures came out we thought it was going to be an interesting start with the Bolton away game sandwiched in between the two home games.

“So far we’ve adapted well and there’s more to come because the new lads are still getting to know us, but are pushing hard for inclusion, which is great.

“We’re starting to get the competition I feel we need at this club to climb up a level.”