Wrexham's North American tour is 'mental!' Defender Max Cleworth previews pre-season schedule as Phil Parkinson's side prepare for another 'unbelievable experience'

The Welsh side will come up against Bournemouth and Chelsea in California over the next week before they travel north to Canada to face Vancouver Whitecaps in the hometown of co-owner Ryan Reynolds as they prepare for their first season back in League One.

The Red Dragons have enjoyed immense popularity in the United States since Hollywood actors Reynolds and Rob McElhenney completed their takeover of the club and started the successful documentary series Welcome to Wrexham. The size of their American fanbase has resulted in great interest in their pre-season friendlies and Cleworth is still getting used to the attention.

"You almost have to pinch yourself. It is mental that we can go across the world to America and be part of selling out stadiums," Cleworth said to The Leader. "Last year was unbelievable to see the support over there and playing some really competitive matches. I am sure there will be even more fans this year after the success of the last two seasons of the documentary. It is going to be another unbelievable experience and we are all extremely grateful being given the opportunity to do it. I am really looking forward to it and hopefully we can put on some good performances. The focus is on getting fit but getting to play against two Premier League teams is going to be another good experience and will stand us in good stead for the new season."

After their matches in the United States and Canada, Wrexham will return to Wales to continue their preparations for the new season. After earning a second consecutive promotion, they will begin their League One campaign with a match against Wycombe on August 10.