Former striker and EFL pundit Sam Parkin has claimed Wrexham have “more growth” in them than Birmingham City, as both sides continue to find their feet in the Championship.
The 2 clubs, promoted and relegated respectively last season, have endured mixed fortunes since moving divisions, but Parkin believes the trajectory of Phil Parkinson’s side is now the more encouraging.
Parkin Praises Wrexham’s Progress
Wrexham have gone 5 games unbeaten in all competitions, finding momentum after a difficult start to life in the second tier. By contrast, Birmingham have struggled to build consistency, losing 4 of their last 7 matches and managing just 1 win in that period.
Speaking on the What The EFL podcast, Parkin highlighted Wrexham’s spine, strengthened by the additions of Dominic Hyam, Josh Windass and Ben Sheaf, as a key reason for optimism. He suggested that their blend of Championship experience and strong dressing-room culture under Phil Parkinson gives the club a sturdier foundation than Birmingham currently possesses.
“Wrexham, for me, the results show you – 1 defeat in 7,” Parkin said. “The addition of Hyam and Sheaf and the return of Windass gives that spine some Championship nous. Phil Parkinson has spoken about the improvement of the players.
“They just need to get better at home, using that crowd, and find more consistency there. They win a lot of their away games, which they have shown already.”
While keen not to overstate the comparison, Parkin said Birmingham’s difficulties in attack remain an issue. Despite the presence of several proven names, the Blues have been short of creativity and goals in recent weeks, a problem that continues to frustrate head coach Chris Davies.
“Comparatively, if you look at Birmingham, and their start to the season, their struggle for goals, their struggle for creativity, I just feel that Wrexham potentially have got a little bit more growth,” Parkin added. “Not to say that Birmingham are going to struggle.”
Different Paths, Similar Goals
Both clubs finished last season on a high: Wrexham clinched back-to-back promotions under the Hollywood ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, and Birmingham claimed the League One title in style..
However, their early Championship experiences have contrasted sharply. Wrexham’s measured recruitment and continuity under Parkinson have helped maintain momentum, whereas Birmingham’s squad turnover has led to a disjointed start.
Despite his critique, Parkin was clear that he does not foresee relegation trouble for the Blues. Instead, he feels the Midlands club are undergoing an inevitable period of adjustment before stabilising at Championship level.
Former Scotland international Chris Iwelumo offered a more optimistic view, suggesting both Wrexham and Birmingham have enough quality to mount a play-off push if they can find consistency before Christmas.
Writer’s View
Sam Parkin’s comments reflect the shifting perceptions within the EFL, that Wrexham are no longer viewed as novelty newcomers but as a side genuinely equipped to compete in the Championship. Their recruitment has been shrewd, their form improving, and the club’s infrastructure continues to expand.
Birmingham, meanwhile, appear to be searching for rhythm after a turbulent year. Both sides are adjusting to new realities, but right now, Wrexham’s curve looks steeper, their confidence higher, and their belief stronger as they continue to prove they belong among the country’s second-tier contenders.
