Wrexham have coasted into the last 32 of the EFL Trophy after beating Wolverhampton Wanderers Under-21’s on Tuesday night.
After Saturday’s 4-1 defeat of Northampton Town, some will have started counting down the days until Wrexham’s next League One clash.
The postponement against Lincoln City due to international call-ups mean Wrexham won’t be in League One action again until 19 October.
There was the small matter of the EFL Trophy in midweek though as Wrexham hosted the Wolverhampton Wanderers Under-21’s at the STōK Cae Ras on Tuesday night.
Wrexham eased home to victory as Lewis Brunt, Paul Mullin and Modou Faal were all on the scoresheet.
That is now two wins from two in the EFL Trophy and guaranteed progression into the next round with one group stage game to spare.
Ryan Barnett on Wrexham teenager Harry Ashfield
Unsurprisingly, Phil Parkinson named an entirely different lineup from the Northampton win.
That meant chances for summer signings such as Faal and Sebastian Revan whilst Anthony Forde impressed.
Parkinson also brought teenagers Aaron James and Harry Ashfield for starting roles as Wrexham look to help the youngsters develop.
Ashfield featured in midfield and showed signs of his huge potential in a dominant Wrexham win.
The 18-year-old has taken to Instagram to celebrate making his full debut, sparking replies from Wrexham teammates.
Elliot Lee, James McClean and Max Cleworth all sent messages of support to Ashfield after his fine display.
Ryan Barnett even called Ashfield ‘Ashiesta’, likening the Wrexham talent to Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta.
Iniesta announced his retirement this week and Wrexham will hope to develop their own version of the Spaniard in Ashfield.
More EFL Trophy action surely on the way for Ashfield
Ashfield is clearly delighted with his appearance against Wolves Under-21’s and will have got the taste for more action.
Breaking into the Wrexham first team is a real battle right now, especially in midfield.
Parkinson can call upon the likes of George Dobson, Elliot Lee, Andy Cannon, Ollie Rathbone, James Jones and even James McClean in midfield.
The EFL Trophy provides a perfect opportunity for Ashfield though, especially with George Evans out injured and Josh Adam yet to be seen in action.
Wrexham don’t have much to play for in the final group game against Port Vale and Ashfield should be given another chance to shine.
Wrexham have progressed rapidly thanks to experienced signings but being a top young talent break through would delight supporters – and Ashfield could follow in Cleworth’s footsteps by becoming a first-team star.
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