Wrexham AFC have delivered a major festive surprise by reinstating veteran striker Jay Rodriguez to their official Championship squad list.
Unexpected Festive Boost
The club confirmed the unexpected move on Monday, immediately adding the 36-year-old to their 25-man roster. To make space, midfielder Elliot Lee has been temporarily removed as he continues his own recovery from injury.
This swift administrative change, enacted under EFL regulations, means Rodriguez could be available for selection as early as Boxing Day, when Phil Parkinson's side host Sheffield United. It marks a significant and accelerated step in the forward's comeback from a long-term absence.
Road to Recovery
Rodriguez has been sidelined since April after suffering a stress fracture in his ankle. The injury was severe enough for him to be omitted from Wrexham's submitted Championship squad back in September.
The former Burnley, Southampton and West Brom attacker joined the Red Dragons in January on an 18-month deal. He played a part in last season's promotion from League One, scoring twice in 17 appearances. According to salary data from Capology.com, he is the club's third-highest earner on a reported £25,000 per week.
Manager Phil Parkinson had indicated in November that Rodriguez was back in training, but expectations were that any formal squad registration would wait until the January window. The club's decision to act now provides a timely boost during a congested fixture schedule.
Impact and Context
Rodriguez, who earned his solitary England cap against Chile in 2013, last featured for Wrexham in a league match on April 21, during a 2-1 win over Blackpool. His return offers Parkinson a valuable and experienced attacking option.
The news comes after a challenging period for the team, who sit 15th in the Championship following a 2-1 defeat to Swansea City on Friday. That match was further marred by a serious injury to substitute Lewis O'Brien, who dislocated his shoulder and injured his knee after a heavy challenge from Ethan Galbraith. Parkinson stated he felt Galbraith was "lucky not to get a red" card for the tackle.
With O'Brien facing a lengthy spell out, the return of Rodriguez provides a positive counterbalance as Wrexham navigate a critical part of the season.
