Steve Nickson has been appointed as Wrexham A.F.C.'s first-ever sporting director to strengthen the club's recruitment strategy. The 52-year-old will work closely with manager Phil Parkinson and report directly to CEO Michael Williamson.

Nickson joined the club in early September, bringing extensive experience from 15 years at Newcastle United and a further 12 at Blackburn Rovers. At St. James' Park, he was highly regarded for identifying young talent, playing a key role in signings like Sven Botman and Joelinton before 2021.

Recruitment expertise

His arrival is a direct response to the club's need to bolster its recruitment department following a rapid rise through the divisions. Wrexham, currently 17th in the Championship with 14 points from 12 games, have identified Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, and the Americas as key scouting markets. The aim is to find high-potential players for modest fees, developing and selling them to fund long-term sustainability. The team's record of three wins, five draws and four losses this season, with 15 goals scored and 18 conceded, highlights the need for strategic reinforcement.

Manager Phil Parkinson is already seeing the benefits of the new structure. "We're in the very early stages for Steve, obviously," Parkinson said.

The appointment follows a summer where the club interviewed several candidates for the role. Nickson's task is to build on recent signings like Liberato Cacace and Jacques Ekomié, and to prepare for the winter transfer window. His work begins against the backdrop of a mixed run of form, with recent results including a 4-1 win over Preston and a 2-0 defeat at Blackburn last Tuesday. The team's recent form across the last five games stands at two wins, one draw and two losses, a sequence that leaves them 11 points adrift of the league leaders.

With a squad showing more depth this season, the focus is on securing Championship status. The immediate challenge is a trip to face 12th-placed Sheffield United this Friday. Kieffer Moore, the club's top scorer with five goals, will be a key figure as Wrexham look to improve their position in the standings. Parkinson noted the team's next fixture is a significant test away at Sheffield United on Friday evening. Nickson's long-term impact will be judged on his ability to find the players who can help the club progress.

First reported at leaderlive.co.uk