Rodriguez getting 'fitter and stronger' at Wrexham

Wrexham striker Jay Rodriguez — [Getty Images]

Phil Parkinson says he did not consider dropping January signing Jay Rodriguez before the striker broke his goal duck against Stockport County.

The veteran forward, 35, netted his first Wrexham goal on his 11th appearance for the club as the Red Dragons move back into second in League One with victory over Dave Challinor's side.

And Parkinson believes Rodriguez's influence has grown since he moved to the Stok Racecourse from Championship high-flyers Burnley in January.

"With Jay, he's had a long period of coming off the bench at Burnley," he said.

"We can sense he's getting fitter and stronger all the time. When you go from being a sub to playing Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday-Tuesday, it's tough.

"But he gives us a lot. We left him out of the cup game to give him a breather that week.

"But with this week's training, I felt he was looking really sharp and ready. It's brilliant for him."

Rodriguez has started 10 successive league matches for Wrexham, with fellow winter window arrival Sam Smith also being handed a prominent role since moving to north Wales.

And Parkinson feels the reaction of his Wrexham players to Rodriguez's goal against Stockport typified how grateful they are for the forward's efforts.

"His physical output is the highest on the pitch which is extraordinary really," added Parkinson.

"That's the level you've got to get to to be a Premier League and Championship player.

"His intelligence, the positions he takes up in and out of possession has helped the team a lot. But of course, everyone wants to get those moments.

"The reaction of the lads when he scored tells you everything."

1d 12:25 AM ET ago

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