**Steven Fletcher Bids Emotional Farewell to Wrexham, Praising Club’s Spirit and Community**
WREXHAM – Veteran striker Steven Fletcher has revealed he still holds a deep affection for Wrexham AFC, speaking candidly about his departure that left him “gutted” after being released at the conclusion of the last football season. The 38-year-old, renowned for his previous exploits in the Premier League, reflected on what turned out to be a memorable tenure at the Racecourse Ground, sharing heartfelt praise for the club, its supporters, and its now-celebrated Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Fletcher joined Wrexham with hopes of extending his impressive playing career and quickly made his presence felt. Throughout the previous campaign, the experienced forward notched up eight goals in 40 League One matches, often coming off the bench to deliver crucial performances. His efforts were instrumental as the Red Dragons enjoyed back-to-back promotions, with last season culminating in automatic elevation to the Championship.
Despite his significant contributions on the pitch, Fletcher’s journey in north Wales came to an unexpected end as preparations began for life in the second tier. Manager Phil Parkinson, tasked with reshaping the squad for the rigours of the Championship, made the difficult decision to let several players go, Fletcher included. The ex-Scotland international confessed that leaving was “not by choice”, expressing sorrow in a farewell message to fans and teammates via Instagram in May.
Yet, rather than linger on the disappointment, Fletcher chose to focus publicly on the positives, offering glowing feedback about everyone associated with the club. Speaking recently on the Golf Life YouTube channel, he described his two years at Wrexham as among the most enjoyable of his two-decade career in professional football—a powerful statement from a player who has graced the highest stages in England with the likes of Burnley, Wolves, and Sunderland.
“There’s just something special about the place—the fans, the staff, everyone involved,” Fletcher remarked. “I’ve played at a high level, but it’s the togetherness at Wrexham that truly stands out above all. In all honesty, it’s probably the most fun I’ve had in football.” His words serve as a ringing endorsement for the ownership model fostered by Reynolds and McElhenney, who have invested not only financially but emotionally in the club and the town.
As Fletcher contemplates his future, he admits that retirement is now increasingly likely, estimating he is “95 per cent sure” that his playing days have reached their conclusion. Despite encouragement from former colleagues to consider one final campaign, he believes it might be time to bow out gracefully, rather than “chase something I might not find”.
The admiration between Fletcher and the club’s co-owners appears mutual. Upon hearing the veteran’s imminent departure, actor Ryan Reynolds took to social media to voice his gratitude in typically heartfelt fashion. “Words simply aren’t enough to capture what you’ve brought to Wrexham, the sport, or to me and this town. You ARE greatness,” Reynolds said, highlighting Fletcher’s qualities both as a leader and as a teammate. He also praised the positive influence and sense of enjoyment Fletcher brought to the club environment.
Rob McElhenney, meanwhile, discussed the painful reality of football’s constant change during a recent appearance on the Rob.Ryan.Red podcast. Sharing how he struggled with the speed of Fletcher’s departure, McElhenney noted the contrast between sharing special moments together off the pitch in Los Angeles and suddenly having to say goodbye upon the striker’s release. “Even just mentioning Steven’s name is tough, because it all changed so quickly,” McElhenney confessed.
The fondness and respect that permeates this farewell is a testament to the close bonds Wrexham have fostered during their remarkable resurgence. As Fletcher weighs up the next steps in his life, his time at the club will be remembered not just for his goals but for the unity and positivity he helped inspire.
Wrexham’s climb back into the higher echelons of English football continues under the stewardship of its passionate owners. While departures such as Fletcher’s are inevitable in the natural evolution of any successful side, the warmth and gratitude surrounding his exit highlight the club’s transformed culture—and hint at why it has become a new haven for football romantics from all over the world.