Phil Parkinson says Wrexham's preparations for Derby County have been complicated by the extended international break, with the manager admitting it is harder to predict how Saturday's opponents will set up after three weeks off.
Wrexham go into the Derby County Vs Wrexham match at Pride Park looking to build on their win over Southampton, and Parkinson believes the key will be to stay focused on their own performance rather than overthinking what Derby might do.
Parkinson on the challenge of the break
Parkinson said it can be difficult to predict how Derby will line up after the pause, especially with the Championship so tight. He added that Wrexham will still study Derby's recent team selections, style of play, threats and weaknesses, but noted that the team and system could still be different by Saturday.
Derby County have gone four games without a win, but Parkinson's concern is less about their recent run and more about the uncertainty created by the layoff. In his view, Wrexham need to stick to the core principles that have served them well and make sure the game is about them on the day.
Wrexham want the same away-day approach
Parkinson said Wrexham need to play with the same approach they showed in their away games against Swansea and Millwall, as well as in the home win over Southampton. He said the team feels in a good place physically and can head into the Derby game with confidence after that Southampton result.
The manager also pointed back to last year's trip to Derby, when Wrexham earned a great win. This time, he said the aim is to replicate that performance and keep their consistent form going until the next break.
For Wrexham, that makes Saturday less about chasing Derby's recent pattern and more about delivering another controlled, disciplined display in a match that could be shaped by rhythm as much as form.
