Wrexham captain Dominic Hyam has described Saturday’s FA Cup fifth round match against Chelsea as an “amazing distraction” from their ongoing promotion efforts as they strive to make a mark in the competition.
Under the guidance of Phil Parkinson, Wrexham has recorded three consecutive victories in the Championship, solidifying their position in the top six as they aim for an extraordinary fourth successive promotion season. However, they will take a break from league action to host the world champions in north Wales this weekend.
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“It may be seen as a distraction, but what an incredible distraction it is,” Hyam stated. “You aspire to compete against the best teams and players, which is what makes playing against Premier League teams in the FA Cup so appealing.”
“One day, I hope we can be a Premier League team competing in the FA Cup too.”
Hyam, a summer recruit from Blackburn, made his mark by scoring his first goal for Wrexham in the third round against Nottingham Forest, a match that ended 3-3 before Wrexham triumphed 4-3 on penalties.
Before the recent Hollywood-inspired fame, Wrexham’s notable historical moment was their stunning FA Cup upset against Arsenal back in 1992 when they were still in the Fourth Division.
This current squad has already achieved a significant feat by eliminating a Premier League team, Nottingham Forest, in the third round, and Hyam is eager to continue building on that success.
“Prior to the Forest match, the manager showed us various clips highlighting Wrexham’s history and some of the significant matches from the past,” Hyam recalled. “We aim to use that momentum, having already beaten Forest, as motivation for another chance to create our own legacy.”
Much like the club he joined in September, Hyam, 30, has experienced a diverse career across the divisions, starting in Reading’s academy.
His loan spells with Hemel Hempstead, Basingstoke, and Dagenham & Redbridge exposed him to lower league football, and his subsequent time at Coventry saw him achieve two promotions from League Two to the Championship.
This journey offers Hyam a deeper appreciation for opportunities like the one presented on Saturday.
“It’s essential to remember your journey and reflect on what your past self would think of who you are today,” he shared.
“I give my all in every match I play, and it’s crucial to appreciate where you come from.
“Not every season or game goes smoothly—mistakes will happen, and you’ll learn along the way. However, it is the internal belief and determination that keeps you pushing forward.”