YOUNG centre-back Max Cleworth has to pinch himself that Wrexham are playing sell-out games against Premier League clubs during a pre-season tour to North America.
After clinching back-to-back promotions for the first time in the club's history, Wrexham are preparing for the new League One campaign with two friendlies in America against AFC Bournemouth and Chelsea, before heading to Canada for the first time to face Vancouver Whitecaps.
Wrexham embarked on a similar trip 12 months ago and Cleworth says it was a fantastic experience seeing the Reds' American fanbase at first hand.
"You almost have to pinch yourself," said the two-time Young Player of the Season.
"It is mental that we can go across the world to America and be part of selling out stadiums.
"Last year was unbelievable to see the support over there and playing some really competitive matches.
"I am sure there will be even more fans this year after the success of the last two seasons of the documentary
"It is going to be another unbelievable experience and we are all extremely grateful being given the opportunity to do it.
"I am really looking forward to it and hopefully we can put on some good performances.
"The focus is on getting fit but getting to play against two Premier League teams is going to be another good experience and will stand us in good stead for the new season."
Cleworth knows the players can expect to be pushed to the limit as Wrexham continue preparing for the opening league game of the season at home to Wycombe Wanderers on August 10.
"As much as the experience is enjoyable, last year was a tough trip physically," he said.
"We didn't get the minutes that the gaffer wanted us to get because of what happened with the last game with the weather.
"There is one less game this year but it will be a lot more structured and just as tough.
"With the training and the games, we all know how hard it will be in terms of the work we will be putting in."
Cleworth, 21, is back in America for the second time in less than three months.
In May, the defender and his team-mates celebrated clinching promotion from League Two on an all-expenses-paid lavish bash in Las Vegas, with Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney funding the trip.
Parkinson's men were also in Las Vegas 12 months earlier after winning the National League title following a record-breaking 2022-23 campaign but Cleworth - then aged 20 - was too young to get into some venues.
However, it was a different story this time around and even more enjoyable!
"I had a slightly different experience this year," said Cleworth, who celebrates his 22nd birthday next month.
"I was allowed in a few more places; I was able to go to a few more nightclubs and pool parties, and obviously drinking but not too much.
"I enjoyed it a bit more but I have said before how grateful we are for getting the chance and it was class having the lads together to celebrate.
"Obviously some of them knew they were leaving at that point so it was a nice send off for some top lads. To get that trip was special."
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