Harambee Stars Abroad: Zak Vyner Ruled Out of Stoke City Clash Following Fresh Injury Concern

Wrexham AFC are preparing to face Stoke City at the STōK Cae Ras on Saturday afternoon, but injury concerns, particularly surrounding Zak Vyner, have taken centre stage ahead of the penultimate home game of the season.

Manager Phil Parkinson addressed the situation in his pre-match press conference, offering insight into the squad’s fitness as they look to return to winning ways.

Wrexham have been dealt a setback with Harambee Stars defender Zak Vyner facing a spell on the sidelines due to a groin issue.

Parkinson confirmed that the defender is set for further assessment, raising concerns about his availability beyond this weekend.

“And Zak Vyner's got a scan on his groin tomorrow, but he won't make the weekend 100%. But I don't think there's anything fresh you need to know,” Parkinson revealed.

Zak Vyner’s absence is a significant blow for Wrexham, especially at a crucial stage of the campaign, with the defender having played an important role in recent matches. His condition will now be closely monitored following the scan.

Parkinson also provided updates on other key players, with some positive news mixed with ongoing concerns. Midfielder Matty James is fit and available after being managed carefully in the previous game.

“Matty’s fine. He was never going to play more than 60 minutes at the weekend, but he's fine,” he said.

However, Ben Sheaf remains sidelined after suffering a setback in his recovery process. “Ben is still not with us on the training pitch. He has had some training, but he's had a minor setback,” Parkinson added.

Nathan Broadhead is another player under close watch, with a tight hamstring leaving his participation uncertain.

“Broady's got a bit of a tight hamstring, so we're just going to review that up to the weekend. We'll assess him very close to kick-off.”

Despite the injury concerns, Parkinson expressed confidence in his attacking options as Wrexham aim to deliver a strong performance against Stoke City. He praised the form and impact of his forwards, highlighting their contributions in recent weeks.

“Sam Smith has had an unbelievable second part of the season. Broady has been excellent, until a couple of little injuries have affected him recently. And then Josh has scored goals,” Parkinson noted.

He also pointed out that other players could step up if called upon. “Players in those attacking positions have done well. Davis and Bailey may still get an opportunity, and if they do, then it's up to them to take it.”

With Zak Vyner ruled out and other fitness concerns lingering, Wrexham will need to rely on squad depth and resilience as they take on Stoke City in a key fixture.