Wrexham’s captain, Dom Hyam, will witness his former club, Coventry City, lifting the Championship trophy this Sunday, a testament to his contributions during their ascent from the bottom ranks.
Following that, he’ll focus on helping Phil Parkinson’s team secure their own spot in the Premier League.
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After a 25-year absence, the Sky Blues are back in the Premier League.
This quarter-century included a tough period of administration, ground shares with Northampton and Birmingham, and a descent to the fourth tier.
“I joined them when they were in League Two,” recalled Hyam, who dedicated five years to Coventry before joining Wrexham last summer, as they prepare to take on Coventry at the CBS Arena while pursuing a playoff berth.
“We faced a lot of challenges. For two years, we played home matches at St Andrew’s, which felt unusual. It’s incredible to see such rapid progress for the club. I truly enjoyed my time there, and I still have friends in Coventry.”
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Hyam, now 30, made nearly 200 appearances for Coventry, including a start in the 2018 Wembley playoff final, where the Sky Blues began their upward journey.
“My five years there were fantastic, filled with memorable moments and two promotions,” he said. He later joined Blackburn Rovers in 2022 before making his move to Wrexham.
“It’s wonderful to see them back in the Premier League, but we also have our own goals to focus on.”
Dom Hyam made over 165 league appearances during his time with Coventry City [Getty Images]
While Coventry’s spot in next season’s Premier League is secure, Hyam and Wrexham are in control of their own playoff destiny.
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As the season winds down with two games remaining, Hyam anticipates many “twists and turns” in the playoff chase.
Wrexham heads into Sunday’s match in sixth place following Hull City’s recent 2-1 loss at Charlton Athletic.
The Scottish international emphasizes the need for Wrexham to concentrate on their own performance as they prepare for the game against Coventry, followed by a home fixture against Middlesbrough.
“There are matches taking place across the country affecting different positions in the table,” Hyam noted. “It’s intriguing to be playing on a Sunday, but regardless of what happens, we have our own tasks to fulfill.”
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“We must position ourselves well with exciting and crucial games ahead.”
Aiming for Promotion and World Cup Aspirations
Wrexham previously handed Coventry their first league defeat of the season with a thrilling 3-2 victory at Stok Cae Ras back in October.
“It was a significant match with a tremendous performance,” Hyam expressed. “It was one of my first opportunities to play under the stadium lights, and it ended with a memorable 3-2 win, an unforgettable occasion for us.”
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“Coventry has talented players up front, but we have our strengths too.”
While Hyam remains focused on Wrexham’s playoff aspirations, he also has an eye on a potential spot in Scotland’s World Cup squad.
Hyam earned his second senior cap – three years after his debut – in a friendly match where Scotland faced the Ivory Coast at Everton‘s Hill Dickinson Stadium in March.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson indicated that consistent good performances from him would improve his chances of being selected for Steve Clarke’s squad.
“It’s about taking it one step at a time, one game at a time,” Hyam stated. “My main focus is on my performances, ensuring I stay fit, and finishing the season strongly.”