Wrexham have been told they may have to wait a few seasons before reaching the Premier League.
The Red Dragons are now just one more promotion away from a maiden top-flight campaign.
It follows three consecutive promotions from the National League to the Championship.
However, they suffered a heart-breaking defeat on their return to the second tier on Saturday.
Phil Parkinson’s side were beaten 2-1 by Southampton at St. Mary’s despite leading heading into the 90th minute.
Ryan Manning’s equaliser was followed by a winner from Jack Stephens six minutes into stoppage time.
The visitors had been in front for almost 70 minutes following Josh Windass’ first half penalty.
Ally McCoist believes the newly-promoted side may have ‘reached their level’ after returning to the second tier after 43 years away.
Discussing their loss with Ray Parlour, he told Breakfast: “It’s funny, I just think that they might have reached their level, maybe for a couple of (years).
“They want to get to the top flight, of course. But I always think the teams like Wrexham, they go up, they go up, they’ll find a level.
“And then they’ll maybe stabilise there for a wee while before, hopefully from their point of view, going on again.”
Parkinson on Wrexham loss
Meanwhile, manager Phil Parkinson noted the depth on the Saints’ bench after his side’s late defeat.
He told reporters: “Southampton brought subs on today who were worth £30m or £40m – that was the difference.”
The Wrexham boss continued: “I think when we reflect, it’s a very proud day for the club playing at this level and there was a lot of positives for us.
“The new lads came in and have done really well but the existing players as well, I thought they were really good. That gives us great heart for the season ahead.”
Wrexham have made eight new signings so far this summer, having twice broken their transfer record.
Of those arrivals, seven made their debuts at the weekend, including goalscorer Windass.
When do Wrexham next play?
They are back in action on Tuesday at home to fellow Championship side Hull in the Carabao Cup.
The match comes just days before their first second tier outing at the Racecourse Ground since 1983.
West Brom make the trip to north Wales on Saturday afternoon on the second matchday of the new season.
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