Sam's the man for Parky

'HE'S BEEN BRILLIANT SINCE MOORE'S INJURY ...HIS DISPLAYS HAVE SHOWN HOW GOOD OF A PROFESSIONAL HE IS'

- By LIAM RANDALL

SAM Smith has travelled quite a journey from training alongside Marcus Rashford at Manchester United's academy to now driving Wrexham's ambitions towards the Premier League.

The 27-year-old striker is making the most of his opportunity in the Championship after stepping up following an injury to the club's top scorer, Kieffer Moore. Smith's recent spell in the starting XI has proved vital to Wrexham's climb up the league.

After Wales international Moore sustained a hamstring injury in the final match of 2025 against Preston North End, Smith spearheaded the attack in wins over Blackburn Rovers and Derby County, finding the net in both fixtures. Those victories extended Wrexham's winning run to four consecutive matches and propelled them into ninth position, sitting just a point adrift of the playoff places.

The Hollywood-backed outfit are now beginning to contemplate a stunning fourth successive promotion and manager Phil Parkinson has been swift to commend Smith's contribution.

He said: "When you need players to step in and pick up the baton, Sam's done that so well.

"He's been brilliant. Forget the goals, his all-around displays have been really good and that is what I'm pleased with.