Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson is calling for perspective after his side's heavy 5-1 defeat to Southampton, urging his players to stay focused on the prize as the Championship season reaches its climax. The loss at the Racecourse Ground saw the Red Dragons slip out of the play-off places, but with five crucial games remaining, the message from the boss is clear: the story of this remarkable season is far from over.

Parkinson emphasized the importance of a swift and honest review following the Southampton match, acknowledging the Saints' quality while stressing his own team's capacity for improvement. "We know we can do a lot better," he stated, highlighting the need for accountability without letting one result derail their momentum. For a club that has ridden a wave of promotion euphoria, this moment represents a classic test of character during the grueling Championship run-in.

The immediate focus now shifts to a pivotal Sunday clash against Birmingham City at St Andrew's. It's a perfect opportunity for a response, facing a fellow promoted side in a high-stakes environment. Currently sitting two points behind sixth-placed Southampton, Wrexham's destiny remains firmly in their own hands. Parkinson is banking on the resilience forged during their incredible back-to-back promotions to shine through. "Anything can happen," he reminded everyone, framing the final stretch as a new challenge to be embraced rather than a setback to be feared.

This period will define Wrexham's first season back in the second tier. The progress has been undeniable, but the ultimate test is how a team bounces back from adversity. As they prepare for Birmingham, the squad is being asked to channel any disappointment into a determined performance, proving that their play-off ambitions are built on more than just fairytale momentum.