Wrexham midfielder Ben Whiteman has acknowledged that the extended international break proved more challenging than anticipated, despite offering a chance to recover from a demanding schedule of away fixtures.
The 30-year-old summer arrival found the three-week layoff psychologically difficult, explaining that the absence of an imminent fixture left him feeling something was missing during training sessions. Though the rest period allowed him to recuperate following several lengthy journeys, Whiteman is eager to resume competitive Championship football.
"I found it, surprisingly, quite tough, actually,"the experienced midfielder said ahead of Saturday's trip to Derby County.
"You train to play, really. When you get that amount of time off, you're itching to get back for the next game."
Why does Whiteman struggle with breaks in the schedule?
The Rochdale-born defensive midfielder revealed that extended periods without a fixture on the horizon present a particular challenge for him. His preference is to structure his preparation around upcoming matches, whether at the weekend or midweek.
"The first week was a lot of resting. The travel we have had to do over the past few months was strange, really."he explained.
"I'm a big believer in training for the game on the weekend, or a midweek game a Tuesday or Wednesday night. I love the tactical side of the game, preparing a game plan."
However, Whiteman acknowledged this is an unavoidable part of professional football.
"But it's part and parcel of the job. You get on with it, and now we have a big game on the weekend."
How significant is the Southampton victory heading into this fixture?
Wrexham will travel to Derby with momentum from a dramatic last-gasp win over Southampton, though that result will be nearly three weeks old by kick-off time. Whiteman emphasised the importance of that victory, particularly given Southampton's standing within the division.
The midfielder stressed that defeating one of the league's strongest sides cannot be underestimated as Wrexham prepare for a crucial sequence of matches.
"That win over Southampton was massive for us and our confidence. It was really needed."
What lies ahead for Wrexham in October?
The club faces a demanding fixture schedule over the coming weeks. Wrexham are scheduled to visit Derby County at Pride Park on Saturday, 10 October, with kick-off at 15:00 BST. This will be followed by a home fixture against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday, 13 October, at 19:45 BST, and then a meeting with Preston North End on Saturday, 17 October, at 15:00 BST.
Whiteman stressed the importance of approaching each match individually rather than looking ahead.
"You have to take it one step at a time. It's a three-game week, and we have to look to get maximum points if we want to be successful."
What are Wrexham's expectations for the Derby match?
Despite Derby's position in the table, Whiteman warned against complacency.
"Derby have got some good players and a really experienced manager for the level. We know it's going to be a tough game. There is no easy game in the Championship, and we will go there full of confidence, especially after beating one of the top sides in the league."
According to available league standings, Wrexham occupy 14th place after eight matches with two wins, four draws and two defeats, while Derby sit 22nd with just one victory from their opening eight fixtures.
How does Whiteman view his personal contribution?
The former Preston captain is reluctant to focus on individual performance, preferring instead to emphasise the collective effort.
"I'm not a massive believer in individuals, to be brutally honest. I don't really care, as long as we win a game."
"We all want the same thing, and that's to be promoted out of this division. I'm much more concerned about how we are doing as a team."Whiteman has made 224 appearances for Preston before his move to Wrexham and has featured in every minute of the club's last seven matches, demonstrating his importance to the side despite his reluctance to highlight his own role.
