Wrexham talisman Ollie Rathbone rushed to hospital after nightmare injury blow in pre-season loss to Sydney FC as Phil Parkinson delivers worrying update

Parkinson has confirmed that Rathbone was taken to hospital during Wrexham's pre-season defeat to Sydney in Australia. The midfielder was substituted in the first half, and was helped down the tunnel by the club's medical staff.

Parkinson has explained that Rathbone's ankle "swelled up" once he reached the dressing room, sparking further concern from the physios. The 28-year-old won Wrexham's Player of the Season award in 2024-25 after contributing eight goals from midfield.

Parkinson told reporters: "Ollie's had to go to hospital for an X-ray.

"It's a very quiet dressing room in there because we're concerned about Ollie.

"It didn't look that bad an incident when it happened but it swelled up instantly in the dressing room.

"Kev's [physio Kevin Mulholland] gone with him to hospital and we've just got to keep our fingers crossed."

Wrexham continue their preparations for the new season against Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand this weekend. They kick off their Championship campaign against Southampton on August 9.