ARTHUR OKONKWO kept a clean sheet on his Wrexham debut but the goalkeeper wasn’t happy with his performance.
The 21-year-old, a 6’6” stopper, has joined the Reds on a season-long loan from Arsenal.
Phil Parkinson rang the changes for Tuesday’s opening EFL Trophy group game against Newcastle United under 21s at The STóK Cae Ras and Sam Dalby’s early strike secured a 1-0 win.
London-born Okonkwo, who has played played for England at under 16, 17 and 18 level, kept a clean sheet but be believes he can do much better.
“I wasn’t at my best,” said Okonkwo, who last season had loan spells with Crewe Alexandra and Sturm Graz, where he won the Austrian Cup final
“I want to get used to the team and get used to playing again, and help the team as much as I can.
“I was very rusty, I haven’t played for a few months.
“Obviously that is part of football but it was really important that I played against Newcastle to get used to the team and how they play as well.
“I am happy with a clean sheet but I wasn’t happy with my performance.
“You have just got to go again when you get the next opportunity.”
Mark Howard has taken over as Wrexham’s number one since former England international Ben Foster retired last month.
Rob Lainton, who is currently injured, Luke McNicholas and Liam Hall are other goalkeeping options available to Parkinson and Okonkwo is looking forward to staking his claim for a place in the team.
“There are a lot of goalkeepers here that are really good,” added Okonkwo.
“Mark, Luke, young Liam and Rob who is injured.
“There is a lot of competition, it is just about me focussing on myself and trying my best to get in the team, and do my best for the team.
“And when I get my opportunity, try to perform.
“I just want to be involved and help the team as much as I can.
“If I play or I don’t play, as long as I help the team do well that is my main priority."