PHIL PARKINSON wouldn't think twice about putting Aaron James in the Wrexham side but he hopes the teenager gets a loan move in the new year to continue his development.

The 19-year-old centre-back came through the ranks at The Racecourse and made his competitive debut for the club as a substitute in the FA Trophy fourth round defeat to Altrincham in January 2023.

There were more opportunities last season as James made his league debut when he started the 3-2 win against Salford City in October 2023 and he was also in the side for the 2-1 victory over Sutton United later in the month.

Having also featured in three EFL Trophy matches in 2023-24, Parkinson has turned to James in the competition this season and he earned rave reviews from his manager for his performance in last Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Port Vale who triumphed 3-1 in the penalty shoot-out.

Although he would have no hesitation in calling on James once again, the Reds' boss believes it is in the defender's best interests to go out on loan to get even more first-team opportunities.

"We have got to give Aaron a lot of credit for his performance against Port Vale," said Parkinson. "I thought he was immense.

"He is an under-the-radar player.

"We tried to get him a loan move in the summer but we didn't quite manage to achieve that for him.

"I just hope there were people watching him against Port Vale because he has got incredible pace and athleticism , and he does what it says on the tin.

"He defends with the heart of a lion and we trust him playing in our first-team.

"But I am sure someone in January is going to look at these games he has played for us and give him a chance somewhere."