Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson has now revealed what was really ‘key’ in handing Mark Howard a new contract at the Racecourse Ground.
At the end of the 2023/24 campaign, Wrexham released their retained list.
A number of experienced players, including Luke Young, Ben Tozer and Jordan Tunnicliffe were released from the club while James McClean instantly saw his contract extended, Steven Fletcher was given fresh terms on Tuesday and Mark Howard committed one more year to the club on Wednesday.
The 37-year-old was signed in the summer of 2022 and last term, the former Sheffield United goalkeeper played second fiddle to youngster Arthur Okonkwo, making just seven appearances in League Two.
Most importantly, Howard brought his experience to the table and has claimed he “really enjoyed” pushing the other young goalkeepers to improve.
“I know I’ve got a different role to play going forward but I absolutely love it,” Howard told Wrexham’s official website. “I’d obviously love to play week-in, week-out but I have to accept at 37 that I can’t physically do that.
“Last year, I really enjoyed pushing the other keepers and working in that goalkeeping unit and going forward I’ll continue to do that and hopefully get a few games along the way.”
Phil Parkinson shares what was ‘key’ in Mark Howard contract decision
Many – including Elliot Lee and McClean – have described the Wrexham dressing room as the best they’ve been a part of.
And experienced professionals like Howard are the key reason why the Reds have had so much success since his arrival.
Parkinson has explained how conducting himself as a role model off the pitch was a ‘key’ factor in keeping him at the Racecourse Ground for one more season.
Speaking to The Leader, Parkinson said: “Mark has been good with the young goalkeepers and that is really key for us.
“He is great on the training ground and like Steven Fletcher (who has also signed a new deal), he is another good role model for our younger players. I am pleased Mark is staying with us for another year.”
Mark Howard shares similarities with Man City’s Scott Carson
Scott Carson has won four Premier League titles, two Carabao Cup trophies and two Champions Leagues during his five years at Manchester City, all while making a grand total of two appearances.
Pep Guardiola has previously lauded him for what he brings off the pitch and the chemistry he has with the other goalkeepers.
Speaking in 2021 after making his first European appearance for City, the Spaniard said: “We are delighted. He is very important to us behind the scenes.
“His chemistry with Ederson and Zack Steffen is fundamental in the locker room. People listen when he speaks. He made the biggest save (of the game).”
Carson has made over 400 appearances across his career at clubs such as West Brom, Derby County, Liverpool and Aston Villa.
He shares similarities with Wrexham keeper Howard, who spent time at the likes of Sheffield United, Blackpool and Bolton Wanderers before being snapped up by Parkinson.
Likewise, what he brings off the pitch to the rest of the squad – including his infectious personality and experience – has seen him play a similar role to what Carson does for Man City.
The post ‘That is really key…’: Parkinson shares deciding factor in handing Mark Howard new Wrexham deal appeared first on The Wrexham Insider.