Eoghan O’Connell is on the verge of completing a rare hat-trick of promotions at Wrexham — but the defender says now is not the time to reflect on history. His only focus is finishing the job.
The 29-year-old centre-back, a key figure since arriving from Charlton Athletic in January 2023, has been part of two promotions at The Racecourse and is eyeing a third — this time to the Championship. However, with five games still to play and automatic promotion not yet secured, O’Connell is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
“I’ll think about it if we do it” – O’Connell
Wrexham sit second in League One, three points clear of third-placed Wycombe Wanderers, and head to Wigan Athletic this Saturday on the back of a five-game unbeaten run. Despite momentum building, O’Connell isn’t entertaining thoughts of celebrations just yet.
“I’m not really allowing myself to think about it,” he said. “We have a few lads who have been here for the two previous promotions but I’ll think about it if we do it. We’ll have a long summer to think about it!”
“I just try to stay focused, not just every game but every day in training. I’ve loved every minute here, and this season’s been a good season. We’ll enjoy it even more if we can finish the job.”
Focus on Wigan as rivals close in
O’Connell was quick to stress that Wrexham’s promotion fate may be in their own hands now — but only results on the pitch will keep it that way.
“For the first time in the run-in, it is in our own hands but we won’t take that for granted,” he said. “We’ll prepare for Wigan the same way we prepare for everyone, give our best, and see where it takes us.”
Wycombe, Stockport and Charlton remain in the hunt for second place, but O’Connell insists there’s no time to get distracted. “You’re not looking out for permutations of other games yet. We’re just really focused on ourselves.”
“This stage of the season is a roller-coaster. The best thing we’ve done over the last few years is never get carried away by one result, and we’ll just look to keep doing that,” said O’Connell.
Writer’s view
O’Connell’s mindset epitomises Wrexham’s recent success: focused, steady, and resilient. With momentum behind them and promotion within reach, the message remains clear — no distractions, just business. With five games left, that calm approach could be exactly what carries them over the line again.
