Wrexham Set to Make Wholesale Changes Against Port Vale in EFL Trophy Match

Wrexham is preparing to face Port Vale in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at Vale Park in Stoke-on-Trent. Despite already securing their spot in the next round after victories over Salford City and Wolverhampton Wanderers Under-21s, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has indicated significant changes to his lineup.

Parkinson has confirmed that he will make 11 changes to the team, aiming to give much-needed game time to some players while still preparing professionally to win the match. The motivation to win is partly driven by the desire to secure home advantage in the knockout stages of the competition.

One player expected to start is left wing back Jacob Mendy, who has been described as ‘dangerous’ by Parkinson. Mendy has been recovering from an injury and recently came off the bench against Mansfield Town, suggesting he may be ready for a starting role against Port Vale.

The EFL Trophy rules require teams to field a minimum of four ‘qualifying outfield players,’ which includes players who have started the previous or following league game, those in the top 10 for most appearances this season, players with 40 or more first-team appearances in their career, or players on loan from a Premier League club. This will influence Parkinson’s selection, ensuring a balance between experience and youth.

Port Vale, currently in League Two, will be looking to capitalize on Wrexham’s rotated lineup. The match is part of the group stage of the EFL Trophy, with both teams having already played each other in previous competitions. The last meeting between the two teams in the EFL Trophy resulted in a 2-1 win for Wrexham on November 7, 2023.