RYAN BARNETT couldn’t be happier as he continues to play a big part in Wrexham’s amazing story.

Plucked from National League rivals Solihull Moors in February 2023, Barnett now finds himself back in League One and living the time of his life at the club everyone is talking about.

“It’s the happiest I’ve ever been in my career,” said Barnett, who has been a fans’ favourite as a marauding right wing back during his time at The SToK Racecourse.

“And being happy with your own game is what players want and the manager has helped me immensely.

“He’s had faith in me from the minute I signed.

“He’s given me the chance to attack in a team that has lots of threat going forward.

“But I’ve also been working hard on the defensive side of the game, tracking back and I feel that part of my game has improved.”

Originally a number 10 when he first kicked off his career at Shrewsbury Town, Barnett was switched to the wing where he has been a big hit with Wrexham fans.

His ability to get to the byline and put in a constant supply of crosses has had every Wrexham supporter on the edge of their seats.

“I’ve always had the ability to put a decent ball into the box but it’s something that I work on and practice every day,” added Barnett, who celebrated his 25th birthday last Monday.

“It’s a big part of my game, getting in one-on-one positions and backing myself to beat the defender and put in a cross.”

Barnett is always in the high numbers when it comes to cross-count stats but he’s desperate to add more ‘back-post’ goals to his name.

“I scored a couple last season and the manager keeps telling me to get in on the back post,” added Barnett, who despite losing his place to new signing Seb Revan in the goal-less draw at Bolton, has started every other league game so far.

Wrexham head to Leyton Orient tomorrow where the Reds will be backed by another great following - a support that Barnett and the rest of the Reds players thoroughly appreciate.

“The fans are great,” said Barnett. “The atmosphere for home games is brilliant and we take so many away. It does make such a difference.

“My family love the games at The Racecourse. My dad has supported me all over the country going to places like Darlington.

“Now he’s enjoying it watching Wrexham and even my sisters are tagging along now!”

Barnett has also praised the club’s Hollywood owners, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, for creating the dream rise up the league ladder.

“They’ve given the fans chances of a lifetime and elevated the whole club worldwide.

“They’ve been brilliant for the fans, the manager, the players and the club and their support has been great.

“Little texts after games to say well done mean so much to players - and they do that kind of thing all the time.”