Wrexham news: The Red Dragons have entered into a USA-based pre-season tournament including some world icons
Both Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney will be playing for Wrexham this summer. The star duo, who have captured the imagination of fans across the world for their role in funding an overhaul that lead to National League promotion, are set to take the next step.
In an unexpected twist, the Hollywood actors will be taking to the 'pitch' for a seven-a-side competition in America this summer. The Soccer Tournament, taking place in North Carolina this June, is a completely new 32-team competition and will feature some global legends.
The Red Dragons are already preparing themselves for a major pre-season, facing Chelsea as well as Manchester United and LA Galaxy II as they prepare for League Two football next season. As well as that, though, the owners will be part of the action.
They have both been registered in the squad for the event alongside player-coach David Jones and former players Paul Rutherford, Shaun Pearson and Mark Carrington. Along with a $1m prize for the winner, there is also the chance to face off against other icons.
In a statement, Wrexham advisor Shaun Harvey explained: "We look forward to debuting in the US with a legends team and the ambition of winning the tournament.
"Should we be successful, $500,000 of the prize money will be used to enhance the club's work in the local community. Wrexham AFC is more than just a first team. It represents the people of North Wales and this tournament will allow us to incorporate former players of the club like we have never been able to do before."
Como midfielder and former Premier League great Cesc Fabregas will be playing in the same group as Wrexham, meanwhile USWNT have a team in Group E. Say Word FC will represent black colleges and universities in America while Youtube side Hashtag United have also entered.
The rules of the tournament also differ to normal games. There are no draws in the competition and the winner is the first to reach a 'target score time.' There will initially be two, 20-minute halves and then the team that reaches the target score after that will be the winner.
It potentially allows for teams to get back into a game.
The tournament includes former USMNT forward Clint Dempsey whilst NBA star Chris Paul is one of the owners. There was a $10,000 buy in fee for the first 10 sides, $15,000 for the next 10, $20,000 for the next 11 and a 32nd slot auctioned off to the highest bidder, all competing for the chance to win over five days.