Paul Mullin sparks fresh Wrexham injury fears as he's spotted grimacing in pain after early substitution in EFL Trophy win over Salford

Mullin made his first start of the season on Tuesday in the EFL Trophy against Salford City and went on to score the opening goal in a 2-1 win for the Red Dragons. The forward has returned to action after missing the start of the season following back surgery in the summer. However, Mullin did appear to be in some pain as he made his way out of the dugout at the end of the game, sparking fears he may be set for another lay-off.

Wrexham will be hoping that Mullin did come through the game unscathed, particularly as Phil Parkinson's League One leaders face a crunch game against big-spending Birmingham City next. Parkinson explained after the game that Mullin's early substitution had been planned, as it was his first minutes of the season, and also said his striker felt in good shape.

Parkinson added to Wrexham's media channel: "So pleased, first of all it was a typical Paul goal, a great finish. I think more importantly for Paul, he felt in good shape and he worked hard, and he needed to do that tonight to get the benefit of the match practice. Of course the goal is a bonus but we know he scores. It was important though to see, can we take him a step closer to starting a league game."

Mullin has played a key role in Wrexham's rise through the divisions to League One and will hope to continue in the 2024-25 campaign after making his comeback. Wrexham will be hoping that he can shrug off any discomfort felt after his first start of the season and be available for their 'Hollywood derby' at St Andrew's on Monday.