Wrexham have officially signed former Premier League midfielder Matty James and Icelandic striker Jon Dadi Bodvarsson in a surprise double swoop, boosting their injury-hit squad as they chase League One promotion.
The acquisitions arrive at a critical time for the club, with key players sidelined and suspensions looming.
Matty James Brings Experience to Wrexham Midfield
Matty James, a Manchester United academy product, joins Wrexham on a short-term deal until January. The 32-year-old, who previously played over 100 games for Leicester City and made 42 appearances in the Premier League, was available as a free agent following his summer departure from Bristol City. A seasoned midfielder with nearly 250 Championship appearances, James adds much-needed stability and experience to Wrexham’s midfield.
“It feels great to be given the opportunity to play again and to join a club that’s moving in a direction everybody’s watching,” James told Wrexham’s official website. “I’m over the moon and can’t wait to get started.”
Injury Woes Drive Striker Signing
Alongside James, former Bolton Wanderers striker Jon Dadi Bodvarsson has signed with Wrexham, strengthening their attack after long-term injuries to forwards Steven Fletcher and Jack Marriott. Marriott is sidelined for four months following a broken fibula, while Fletcher, 37, is dealing with a recurring knee injury sustained during Wrexham’s 1-0 win over Rotherham.
The double signing is part of a strategic push by manager Phil Parkinson to address recent injuries and suspensions impacting squad depth. Wrexham’s midfield loss of George Evans, who recently underwent ankle surgery, further emphasized the need for reinforcements, especially with Andy Cannon and George Dobson both one yellow card away from suspension.
Immediate Test at Charlton Awaits
The new signings could debut this Saturday as Wrexham faces Charlton Athletic at The Valley. With a large crowd anticipated, the game represents a financial boost for the hosts. Still, it has stirred controversy over half-and-half scarves that appeared in Charlton’s club shop, sparking mixed reactions on social media.
Currently sitting second in League One and trailing leaders Birmingham City by four points, Wrexham will look to solidify their push for automatic promotion with the fresh firepower and experience James and Bodvarsson bring.
Writer’s View
Phil Parkinson’s squad overhaul underscores Wrexham’s ambitions beyond short-term fixes, showcasing a targeted approach to mitigate their injury-hit season. Matty James’ leadership and Bodvarsson’s goal-scoring potential should boost Wrexham’s promotion chances, highlighting the club’s well-balanced strategy of combining veteran expertise with emerging talents. The real test, however, will come in the form of challenging fixtures where squad depth will prove invaluable.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
