Former Wrexham manager Bryan Hughes has recently disclosed his pivotal role in awarding a new contract to one of the club’s current standout players. Currently, Wrexham finds itself deeply immersed in a compelling endeavor to secure promotion to League One.
Despite suffering a 1-0 defeat to Doncaster Rovers earlier in the week, Phil Parkinson’s squad retains control of their destiny, boasting a two-point advantage over fourth-placed MK Dons, along with a match in hand.
Reflecting on past seasons, Wrexham’s journey toward promotion has been marked by a blend of triumphs and setbacks. Notably, their remarkable championship triumph over Notts County in the previous season stands out, characterized by a record-breaking performance. Conversely, the disappointment of falling short against Grimsby in the nerve-wracking 5-4 defeat during the playoff semi-finals a year earlier lingers in memory.
Furthermore, the recollections of the 2018/19 season resonate, marked by a managerial carousel that witnessed three changes, yet culminated in a playoff berth. Bryan Hughes eventually assumed the managerial reins from February onward, guiding the team through the culmination of the campaign, which concluded with a defeat to Eastleigh. Hughes was subsequently relieved of his duties in September 2019.
Bryan Hughes shares key decision to give Wrexham ‘super talent’ new contract
Since his departure from Wales nearly five years ago, the former Hull City midfielder has abstained from assuming a managerial position. However, one of his farewell remarks to Spencer Harris, a former Wrexham board member, remains memorable.
In an interview with The Athletic, Hughes disclosed his role in securing long-term contracts for Jake Bickerstaff and Max Cleworth.
While Bickerstaff is currently excelling on loan at Accrington Stanley, Cleworth has emerged as a pivotal player in Parkinson’s defensive lineup, amassing 19 League Two appearances.
During Hughes’s tenure, both players, aged 17 at the time, were honing their skills in the Wrexham youth team.
Presently, they stand as notable performers in the fourth tier, with Cleworth arguably poised for a higher level of competition.
“When I departed following the defeat to Fylde, one of my parting remarks to Spencer Harris was to ensure Jake Bickerstaff and Max Cleworth were offered favorable contracts,” Hughes remarked.
“Though they were members of the youth team then, I had entrusted them with their debuts (against Ayr United in the Scottish Challenge Cup). Bickerstaff displayed a natural talent, while Max exhibited exceptional abilities. Both required refinement, yet their potential was unmistakable.”
Bryan Hughes spotted Max Cleworth’s talent
Hughes exhibited his keen eye for talent when he identified Cleworth and recommended to a member of the Wrexham board that the player be offered a new contract. This astute decision has since been validated, with the 21-year-old emerging as a crucial member of the first-team roster. It is plausible that without Hughes’ managerial influence, this progression may not have transpired.
As a former Premier League player for Hull City, Hughes possesses a wealth of experience having played alongside some of the most accomplished individuals in English football. Consequently, his ability to recognize exceptional talent is commendable.
Fortunately, Hughes recognized Cleworth’s potential, a testament to the young defender’s promising future in the sport.