A former Premier League ace is reportedly set to pocket around half a million before he kicks a ball again for Wrexham. The Red Dragons named their 24-man Championship squad earlier this month, with a quartet of players left out. And with manager Phil Parkinson hinting that one final spot is set to be filled, an experienced star won't play for the them in the league until at least January 1, 2026.
Getty Images SportRathbone set to return from injury
Wrexham named their 24-man Championship squad in early September, with Andy Cannon, Jay Rodriguez, Ollie Rathbone, and Danny Ward all left out. Ward, Rodriguez, and Cannon are all injured, but it seems Rathbone is nearing a return. With the squad list set until January, the other three cannot play for the Welsh side until the start of 2026.
AdvertisementRodriguez to pocket hefty Wrexham sum
Rodriguez is reportedly earning £25,000 a week at Wrexham, meaning he will pocket around £500,000 before he can play for the club this term. The former Burnley man, who spent many seasons in the Premier League with the Clarets and Southampton, joined the Red Dragons in January on an 18-month deal, but so far, he has been an underwhelming signing. A return of two goals in 17 matches isn't much to write home about.
GettyWhat Parkinson said on Wrexham star
EFL rules dictate that Wrexham can still add one more player to their Championship squad, and Parkinson has all-but confirmed it will be Rathbone. "We need Ollie back, he’s a key player for us. He was instrumental for us last year," the Wrexham boss has said. "He’s a player who has played in the Championship; first year did well, second one was a difficult one at Rotherham because they had a very weak squad. But he’s played at this level, and when he signed for us, he was determined to get back into the Championship… His energy and his quality, I can’t wait to get Ollie back out with us."
Wrexham turn attention back to Carabao Cup
Wrexham, who secured a timely 3-2 win at Norwich City on Saturday, are back in Carabao Cup action on Tuesday when they host League One outfit Reading in the third round of the competition. It remains to be seen when Rodriguez, 36, will play for them again.