Patience was a key word used behind the scenes at the Stok Cae Ras following a transfer window that saw 13 players join the club.

There were hugely encouraging signs from the outset at Southampton, although the gut-wrenching 2-1 loss to the Saints proved to be the start of a theme early on.

Wrexham had chances to extend their lead in their season opener, with Conor Coady and Ryan Hardie among those to go close after Josh Windass’ early penalty – but they were ruthlessly punished for failing to take those efforts as they conceded twice late on.

Frustrating and disappointing results against West Bromwich Albion, Sheffield Wednesday and Queens Park Rangers followed – with a 2-0 win at Millwall being the biggest plus point early on.

There was also a run to the fourth round of the EFL Cup – which saw wins against Hull City, Preston North End and Reading – for the first time since 1978, which provided Parkinson with the platform to rotate his squad.

As for the Championship though, in stark contrast to Parkinson’s previous four seasons at the club, home form was an issue this time around as his side failed to win any of their first five league matches in north Wales.

Reflecting on the home form after his side’s victory against Charlton, Parkinson said: “Particularly at home, in those early games we were almost chasing the games in a bit of desperation to get that first win.”

Even after a frustrating 3-1 loss to Queens Park Rangers, the attacking data was hugely encouraging, with Wrexham showing they could create chances and score goals at the level.

But the defensive side of matters was deeply concerning, although, little by little, improvements became evident.

Speaking in mid-September, Parkinson said: “We’ve changed the squad around completely and there was always going to be a period at the start where it doesn’t go completely as you’d want it.”

Such is the scrutiny on Wrexham, their slow start was always going to create headlines.

One media outlet claimed Wrexham chiefs had held talks over Parkinson’s future at the club, a report that non-executive director Shaun Harvey labelled “an absolute disgrace”.

The club have not looked back since that flashpoint.