'Game of poker' - Phil Parkinson explains why Wrexham are struggling to strengthen squad in January transfer window despite financial backing of Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney

The 56-year-old explained why the League Two outfit are yet to make a new addition to their squad in the ongoing January transfer window, despite Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's willingness to spend money. The club currently sit second in League Two, two points behind leaders Stockport County with a game in hand, and are in the market for reinforcements.

Speaking to The Athletic, the Wrexham boss said: "There are a lot of enquiries going on but, equally, we have some good players ready to make a big contribution. If there is a player out there who we feel can improve us, we will make a move. We are always looking. It can be a bit of a game of poker, as this is a competitive business when you’re trying to sign players.

"I keep getting told there’s no money in football. But, when we try to sign players, we keep getting told they don’t need the money so don’t need to sell. It can be hard to wrestle players away."

The Red Dragons took a similar wait-and-see approach in the summer. On deadline day, the club signed goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on loan from Arsenal while midfielder George Evans came in from Millwall. Both of the signings have proved to be successful as Okonkwo has managed to keep seven clean sheets in the 16 league games he has played thus far, while Evans has been rock solid in defensive midfield.

The Welsh club, who are on a three-match winning streak and two points behind league leaders Stockport, will next take on rivals Newport County on January 20 in a League Two clash.