Wrexham's Conor Coady Optimistic Despite Opening Day Defeat
Conor Coady expresses confidence that Wrexham "will get better" following their 2-1 defeat to Southampton in the opening match of the 2025-26 Championship season.
Phil Parkinson's team seemed poised to secure all three points at St Mary’s Stadium after debutant Josh Windass converted a penalty in the first half.
However, late goals from Ryan Manning and Jack Stephens delivered a dramatic victory for Will Still in his first competitive match as manager of the Saints.
Despite the setback, summer signing Coady believes Wrexham can draw significant lessons from their league opener, marking their first game in the second tier since the 1981-82 season.
“It’s hugely disappointing. We’ll analyze the performance and highlight some positive aspects,” said the England defender.
“The entire football club must learn, including myself. I thought we really challenged Southampton at times. We created opportunities in the first half, including a couple for myself.”
“If we can capitalize on those crucial moments, going 2-0 or 3-0 up would have made it a perfect performance. It’s really disappointing, but can we find positives? I believe we can.”
“We will improve. Let’s not forget, Southampton were in the Premier League last season while Wrexham was in League One, so we are now competing with these teams and demonstrating that we can play.”
Coady had an impressive debut for the north Wales club following his transfer from Leicester City. The centre-back made a crucial block to deny Adam Armstrong a goal in the first half and finished the match with three blocked shots and ten clearances, both the highest of any player on the pitch.
The 32-year-old feels that Wrexham’s performance showcased their ability to compete at the Championship level after three consecutive promotions from non-league football.
“We know who we are and we aim to disrupt a few teams in this division. We’ll continue to build and improve,” he added.
“It’s incredible to see how far this club has come. I have immense respect for what the club has accomplished since moving up from the National League to this point.”
“We are at a stage where we don’t just want to enjoy being here; we want to improve and compete with teams like this and possibly aim higher. To achieve that, we need to establish dominance at this level, and we will strive to reach that as quickly as possible.”
Approximately 3,000 Wrexham supporters traveled to the south coast for the match, and Coady expressed admiration for the club's away following.
“This football club excites me. I’ve never experienced an away end like that,” Coady remarked. “I thought they were outstanding. That was my first experience of a Wrexham away end, and the atmosphere from minute one to minute 97 was exceptional.”
“Please keep that support coming, as we need it more than anything. As for the club, I’m thoroughly enjoying it. It’s been easy for me to settle in because the club is filled with amazing people.”