Wrexham sign ex-Premier League striker as cover for star Paul Mullin

Wrexham sign former 53-goal Premier League striker to help cover the loss of star Paul Mullin as the Welsh outfit look to push on after erratic start to League Two

• Last season’s star striker Paul Mullin picked up a long-term injury in pre-season 
• The new signing has experience in top-flights in England, France and Scotland 
• Listen to the latest episode of Mail Sport’s podcast It’s All Kicking Off 

Wrexham have looked to a former Premier League star in a bid to push on after a promising start to life back in the Football League. 

The Welsh side secured promotion back to League Two last season in dramatic circumstances under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. 

However, it has not exactly been smooth sailing back in the Football League, winning two of their first six games and losing one, drawing the other three – especially in the absence of star striker Paul Mullin who is out with a punctured lung.

As such, manager Phil Parkinson has perhaps sought greater Football League experience in the transfer market, picking up a top-flight veteran on a free transfer until the end of the season. 

The striker – now 36 – was born just 30 miles from Wrexham in nearby Shrewsbury – and has 53 Premier League goals from 189 appearances to his name, having played for three different teams in the division. 

Phil Parkinson’s Wrexham have had an unsure start to League Two with two wins, a loss and three draws

Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds (left)and Rob McElhenney (right) have helped draw big names to the club

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The player – Steven Fletcher – was most recently in action in the Scottish top-flight, where he was unable  to help save Dundee United from relegation into the Scottish Championship. 

But he brings with him plenty of experience, having featured in the top divisions in each of England, Scotland and France in a long career at the top.

Now, though, he finds himself hoping to fill in for Mullin, who scored a staggering 46 goals in all competitions in 2022-23, but now faces a spell on the sidelines after an injury against Manchester United in pre-season. 

‘Hopefully I can bring a lot of experience,’ said Fletcher on signing for the League Two side on Friday. ‘I’m 36, I’m still fit and still raring to go.

‘One of the biggest selling points was the ambition of the Club, and if I can help with that then great.

‘I don’t think you can not see what has been happening at Wrexham – it’s been a great experience for the fans, players and owners so hopefully we can continue that.’

Wrexham’s season has been characterised by excitement at both ends of the pitch so far in their first six games. 

They have both scored and conceded 14 goals in 2023-24, and will likely hope for greater stability to build on moving forward in a bid for survival on their return.  

Steven Fletcher has signed for Wrexham on a one-year deal until the end of the season

Fletcher featured for three Premier League clubs, including Sunderland, Wolves and Burnley

Fletcher also spent time across the Channel, scoring three goals in 18 appearances for the French side

Parkinson personally spoke glowingly of the ‘professionalism’ that the 36-year-old can bring to the squad, although he hinted it might not be an immediate introduction to first-team action after missing most of pre-season.

‘I’m really pleased with the addition of Steve to the squad. He’s missed football through pre-season but he’s trained today with the lads and it’s good to have him on board.

‘His pedigree speaks for itself, and he’s played most of his career at a very high level. He’s an excellent professional and that’s really important to fit in with the group here.’

Wrexham are next in action on Saturday, when they welcome Doncaster to the Racecourse, in a bid to continue their three match winning streak in all competitions.  

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