Wrexham co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have made it clear that players must be fully committed to the club’s long-term project, rather than seeking a “PR boost” from their Hollywood-backed documentary series.
Former England goalkeeper Ben Foster, who came out of retirement in March 2023 to join the club, has revealed the pre-contract warning he received before signing at the SToK Racecourse.
Wrexham’s ambitions come first
Foster, a former Manchester United and Premier League star, played a key role in Wrexham’s promotion-winning campaign in the National League before retiring again early in the 2023-24 League Two season.
He has now lifted the lid on a frank conversation he had with manager Phil Parkinson before signing, with the club’s leadership making it clear that Wrexham is not a sideshow for players looking to gain attention from the popular Welcome to Wrexham documentary.
“I was properly on the back foot at nearly 40 years old when I had Phil Parkinson grilling me. He was very clear with me and very honest,” said Foster on his Fozcast podcast.
“He said, listen, if you’re coming here just for a bit of PR, then that’s not what we’re looking for. It’s not going to work.
“If you’re coming here to work hard and help get us over the line, then this can be something. As soon as I heard those words, and I looked into his eyes, I thought that this is serious business here. I liked it.”
A club on the rise
Foster made a significant impact during his brief spell with the club, most notably with a crucial penalty save against Notts County that helped secure the National League title.
However, he ultimately decided to step away from professional football again, acknowledging that another step up into the EFL was beyond him. Wrexham, though, have continued their upward trajectory and are now thriving in League One, aiming for a third successive promotion.
Writer’s view
Wrexham’s rapid rise under Reynolds and McElhenney has attracted global attention, but their strict stance on player commitment underlines their serious ambitions. While the club’s Hollywood owners add glamour, the football remains the priority. Foster’s story highlights that Wrexham is building something substantial—not just a media spectacle. With the Red Dragons flying high in League One, the focus is firmly on another promotion push.
