'We've rattled them' - Wrexham goalkeeper says team 'already in the heads' of rivals after rapid rise under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney

The Red Dragons backed up their National League triumph in 2023 with promotion out of League Two this season. Ahead of taking on the teams in League One next term, substitute keeper Howard spoke about how the Welsh side are "already in the heads" of rival teams - partly due to the success and popularity of the Welcome to Wrexham documentary - amid their ascent up the English Football League.

He told The Leader: “There is a lot from opposition players, staff and fans. We hear it and see it. But we like it. We know it’s already in their heads, we know we have a slight edge on them as we have rattled them before the game starts. The comments are going on weekly. We find it a bit funny that we have got to people. It’s a motivational tool that people try to throw in our faces but we are accustomed to it.

“For this level it’s been a bit of a media circus but it’s something as players, and I will include the staff in that, that we are all used to. We have all embraced it. A lot of players use that against us. For the documentary style show, they all want to be the villain who ruins the episode of Welcome to Wrexham. A lot of the away teams want to ruin the party.”

Co-owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds appear to have the Midas touch since taking over the club just over three years ago. They have secured two straight promotions and have their sights set on the Premier League. And much of that success is down to the documentary, which has led to more revenue coming in, widening the club's appeal across the planet, and more.

While Wrexham's players are now enjoying a summer break, they will return late next month to begin their pre-season campaign. In July, the Welsh side take on Bournemouth, Chelsea, and Vancouver Whitecaps in North America in friendly matches.