Wrexham’s coach, Phil Parkinson, aims to rekindle the spirit of his Bradford City team that triumphed over Chelsea in the 2015 FA Cup, as his current squad prepares to welcome the West London club in this season’s fifth round on Saturday.
Eleven years prior, Parkinson and his assistant, Steve Parkin, led the League One Bantams. They rallied from a two-goal deficit to secure a 4-2 victory in the fourth round, eliminating rivals who, under Jose Mourinho, would later claim the Premier League title that very season.
“It was a truly memorable occasion for the Bradford fans, as there were no expectations,” Parkin mused.
“Steve and I prefer to operate by the identical ethos and embody the essence of Wrexham as a locale – much like our approach when we were with Bradford.”
“The resilient underdog mentality must be present, given that we are facing a team who are the reigning global club titleholders.”
“Despite their immense skill, our focus is entirely on performing creditably, and we shall then discover the outcome.”
On Wednesday, Parkinson observed Chelsea triumph 4-1 at Aston Villa, with Joao Pedro netting three goals and Cole Palmer converting the remaining one, as Liam Rosenior’s team ascended to fifth position in the premier division.
“It’s commendable that Chelsea has afforded a young British manager the chance to lead a club of such prominence,” Parkinson remarked, adding, “He appears to be guiding them to play precisely as he desires.”
Rosenior orchestrated Chelsea’s inaugural victory in three league fixtures. The team is also set to travel to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16 opening match on Wednesday (20:00), before entertaining Newcastle three days thereafter (17:30).
Regarding the outcome against a struggling Villa, he commented, “Its meaning is only truly felt if we sustain it. We must be steadfast.”
“We face a crucial FA Cup match, followed by a significant encounter with Paris, and then another important fixture against Newcastle. Should we execute with similar quality, we will find ourselves in an advantageous position.”
Chelsea’s practice of congregating closely in the midfield spot before the start of play in both halves seemingly irritated Villa. Rosenior clarified, “That wasn’t my concept.”
“It originated with the players, and I genuinely appreciate it as they are demonstrating cohesion, solidarity, and camaraderie.”
“Such a quality is essential: prior to discussing strategies or formations, one requires a squad prepared to exert themselves and contend for one another.”
“During my tenure, there has never been a single match where they haven’t displayed total commitment, nor have I been dissatisfied with their effort.”
“That portends favorably. They constitute a cohesive, strong unit who relish their interactions. That, in itself, is a significant advantage.”
Goal number three for Joao Pedro. 👏#CFC | #AVLCHE pic.twitter.com/98qyz8sYJU
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 5, 2026
Wrexham vs. Chelsea Squad Updates
For Wrexham, loanee Manchester City winger Issa Kabore (hamstring) and forward Nathan Broadhead (groin) are uncertain to play.
George Dobson might feature in a cast, having fractured a carpal bone in his wrist. Parkinson noted, “There’s discussion of that.”
“We need to assess his condition. While it’s not an injury that will sideline him for an extended period, he has undergone minor surgery to insert a pin there.”
Winger Pedro Neto is cleared to play for Chelsea after his suspension. Filip Jorgensen deputized for Robert Sanchez against Villa, marking the Denmark international’s initial appearance in the starting lineup since January, as Rosenior clarified that he maintains no undisputed primary custodian.
Forward Joao Pedro, who had notched his inaugural Premier League hat-trick, remained on the bench during the 4-0 victory over Championship Club Hull City in the fourth round. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez was also a substitute in that match.
Willian Estevao has resumed practice following a thigh complaint, and teammate on the flank Jamie Gittens is “recovering effectively from his rehabilitation” for the identical ailment, Rosenior stated before the triumph over Villa.
The second-half action from pitchside. 🎥#CFC | #AVLCHE pic.twitter.com/wi9UDcFdWp
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 5, 2026