## Emotional Farewells as Wrexham Say Goodbye to Key Players, with Owners Paying Tribute
Wrexham AFC’s remarkable rise in English football this season has been touched by mixed emotions, as the club prepares to part company with two significant squad members: Steven Fletcher and Mark Howard. With their contracts set to expire this summer, both players prepare to move on after helping Wrexham achieve a dream promotion to the Championship. The news has prompted heartfelt responses from Wrexham’s celebrity owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, reflecting on the contributions and character of the departing stars.
Steven Fletcher, who scored eight vital goals during the promotion campaign, faces the end of his tenure at Wrexham despite his wish to stay. The Scottish striker admitted that the decision was not his and leaves with a sense of unfinished business and emotion, describing his exit as departing “with a heavy heart.” Fletcher played a key part in securing Wrexham’s climb from League One, becoming an integral part of the team and its community.
Mark Howard, aged 38, caps his Wrexham journey having been instrumental during the club’s last three seasons, all of which culminated in promotion. With eleven appearances in the most recent season, Howard’s influence extended off the field as well, often noted for his leadership in the dressing room. Both players’ exits are significant for a club keen to maintain momentum in its upward trajectory, but such transitions often come as new footballing challenges arise.
Speaking publicly, co-owner Ryan Reynolds took to social media to extend gratitude and admiration for the departing duo. In a message laced with affection and respect, Reynolds described Fletcher as “greatness” itself, stating, “You aren’t a PART of greatness. You ARE greatness.” The Canadian actor also expressed uncertainty about what to do or say as co-chairman during times like these, demonstrating openly the personal bonds developed during his stewardship. On goalkeeper Howard, Reynolds lauded his “clutch” qualities both on the pitch and in life, crediting him as the heartbeat of the Wrexham squad and a key reason for the team’s strong camaraderie.
Rob McElhenney, co-owner and actor, echoed these sentiments, admitting that farewells “are truly the worst part” of running a football club. He highlighted the admirable character of both men, stating, “They are men of ability and principle and commitment and compassion.” McElhenney emphasised that Fletcher and Howard had become close friends as well as players, expressing hope that their paths would cross again in the future.
Fletcher’s own farewell was, unsurprisingly, emotional. Calling Wrexham “the most magical club I have ever played at,” he reflected on the extraordinary support from fans, staff, and teammates. He credited the club with helping him rediscover his love for the game and highlighted the strong sense of family he experienced in the changing room. Fletcher directly thanked the club’s owners for the opportunity and their uplift during his time at the Racecourse Ground.
Meanwhile, Mark Howard expressed his intention to continue his footballing career, noting that he still felt “something left in the tank.” Reflecting proudly on achieving three consecutive promotions as Wrexham’s goalkeeper, Howard expressed gratitude for the club’s culture and his connection with teammates, staff, and supporters. Acknowledging that his relationship with the Wrexham faithful had not always been smooth, he thanked fans for welcoming him and helping him feel at home both on and off the pitch.
Both players leave having made indelible marks on Wrexham’s history, contributing to an exhilarating period for the club that has captured attention far beyond Wales. Their departures also underline the often-unseen challenges in professional football, as clubs are required to make difficult squad decisions despite close personal attachments.
As Wrexham embarks on a new chapter in the Championship, the legacy of Steven Fletcher and Mark Howard will be remembered not only in statistics and match highlights but in the bonds formed with the community and the club’s ownership. For fans and players alike, these farewells serve as a poignant reminder of football’s deeply human side—a sport full of triumph, heartbreak, and ever-changing fortunes.