Midfielder Andy Cannon was in excellent form for Wrexham
ANDY CANNON has performed different midfield roles for Wrexham but playing in a more advanced position paid off in the promotion-winning campaign.
The 28-year-old joined the Reds from Hull City in December 2022 and after building up his match-fitness, he helped the Reds clinch the National League title.
Having operated mainly as the defensive midfielder, Cannon has been used in a more forward position this season following George Evans’ arrival from Millwall.
It has paid dividends with Cannon enjoying a productive season on the goals front.
He scored eight times in all competitions and puts it down to being used in a more attacking role.
“I think it is being further up the pitch in a different midfield role,” said Cannon, who has also played in the Football League for Rochdale and Portsmouth.
“I am getting forward a bit more. Every other season, I have either been pushed a little bit further back or played in the two in midfield.
“I have never had a run of games in the number eight role.
“I am just happy to contribute with goals and assists, and long may it continue.”
Cannon was still used as the defensive midfielder when Evans was absent but he made no secret of which role he prefers.
“I would rather be further up the pitch, when it is more attacking,” said Cannon.
“But injuries happen so if I have to move back, that is what I am willing to do and I will try and do a job there.”
Fellow midfielder Elliot Lee is the only player who featured in all 46 games as Wrexham secured a top-three finish and promotion to League One.
Cannon wasn’t far behind with 35 league appearances to his name and he believes playing regularly was hugely beneficial as he enjoyed a brilliant second half of the campaign.
“Having a run of games and getting fully match-fit obviously helped,” said Cannon, a promotion winner in each of the last three seasons with Stockport and then twice with Wrexham.
“I had a couple of seasons before hand where I probably didn’t play nowhere near as much football as I should have.
“It took a bit of time to get fully going but I felt really good.”
Cannon didn’t take his foot off the gas after Wrexham clinched promotion, scoring in the 3-0 victory at Crewe Alexandra before netting a late winner as the Reds beat champions Stockport 2-1 on the final day.
Although he was in no mood for the season to finish, Cannon is looking forward to recharging the batteries over the summer.
“It would be nice if it carried on,” he added.
“Playing every game, you get match fit and your confidence builds with having a run of games as well.
“It’s good and it’s been a good season for everyone involved.
“But it’s been a tough season with a lot of games so it will be nice to have a bit of a break.”
