Cherries an example to Dragons of life in Prem

EX-SUNDERLAND and Southampton striker Kevin Phillips has suggested that Wrexham should look to Bournemouth as a model for achieving lasting success in the Premier League.

- By LIAM RANDALL

Phillips, who enjoyed Championship promotion five times during his career, commended the efforts of manager Phil Parkinson after the Red Dragons firmly positioned themselves in the playoff picture in their first season back in the second tier after 43 years.

Wrexham are currently ninth in the Championship standings, just a point shy of the playoff spots, thanks to a streak of four consecutive league wins.

‘They have also tasted FA Cup success, knocking out Premier League side Nottingham Forest in a penalty shootout last week.

Speaking to BestBettingSites.co.uk, Phillips said: “I think what Phil Parkinson's done has been remarkable.

“They've got an opportunity [to get promoted]. Of course, the top two are way out of their reach.

“There are probably only three teams that are maybe competing for that.

“But certainly, they have put themselves in a position with the run that they've had.

“They've won their last four games to push for a playoff spot. Now, we've only just got into January.