Nathan Broadhead Scores First Goals for Wrexham
Nathan Broadhead, Wrexham's record signing, expressed his delight after scoring his first goals for the club as he aims to contribute in the Championship.
The 27-year-old forward netted two goals in Wrexham's 2-0 victory over Reading in the EFL Cup third round on Tuesday, marking a successful return after a calf injury sidelined him during the early part of the season.
"I’m just delighted to score and progress to the next round," Broadhead stated. "I can’t wait to get properly match fit, regain my sharpness, and compete in the Championship. I’m adjusting to playing with new teammates and different systems, and it’s allowed me some time to settle in with my family and belongings. I’m just happy to be settled now and playing football."
Originally from Bangor, Broadhead was part of Wrexham's academy before beginning his professional career with Everton. He joined Ipswich Town permanently in 2023 and played a role in their stint in the Premier League last season, an experience he hopes to replicate with Wrexham.
Wrexham's Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have expressed their ambition to reach the top tier of English football. "That’s the main reason I came here, and hopefully, we can achieve that goal of bringing this club to the Premier League," Broadhead added. "The owners have a clear vision, and it’s evident with the quality of players being recruited from the Championship. That’s the project we’re working on."
Broadhead was among 13 new signings at Wrexham this summer, joining fellow Wales teammates Danny Ward and Kieffer Moore. Moore recently scored the winning goal for Wales in a World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan, a match Broadhead missed due to his injury.
Wales currently sits third in Group J with three matches remaining, and Broadhead is enjoying his time under manager Craig Bellamy. "He’s an intense manager, and I’m enjoying working with him. Typically, I play as a number 10 in his system, which differs from ours, but I’m adaptable," he noted.
Wrexham’s victory over Reading not only propelled them into the next round but also marked a historic moment, as it is the first time three Welsh teams—Wrexham, Cardiff City, and Swansea City—have reached the last 16 of the competition. Wrexham last advanced to the Fourth Round in the 1977-78 season, a fact the current players were reminded of before facing Reading.
"The manager mentioned it before training the other day, and it highlights the progress the club is making," Broadhead remarked. "We’ve made history tonight, and I hope there are many more milestones to come. It shows the positive direction of Welsh football, and I’m excited to be part of it under Craig Bellamy and Wrexham."