Wrexham are finalising their plans to take on Wellington Phoenix in their final game of the pre-season tour down under.
Phil Parkinson’s side have travelled to New Zealand off the back of a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Sydney FC in their last match.
Wrexham are just weeks away from their Championship opener at Southampton and whilst Parkinson is planning more friendlies, the players will need to use this opportunity to regain some more sharpness in their play.
Ollie Rathbone was taken off just before half time in the previous clash and sent to hospital for a scan on his ankle injury, the Red Dragons’ boss has just provided an update on the midfielder and another fitness worry in his squad.
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Phil Parkinson provides fitness update on Ollie Rathbone and Jack Marriott
Fans were concerned about Rathbone as he looked in real pain as he exited the field in Sydney and Parkinson has revealed that the 28-year-old will be in a protective boot for the next two weeks.
Parkinson stated: “Ollie Rathbone had an x-ray which showed no break but subsequently he had a scan and he’s now in a boot for two weeks, we will assess the injury more after that.”
Wrexham have been rocked by a further injury concern after Parkinson also revealed that Jack Marriott has required surgery to remove his appendix.
Parkinson explained: “Jack Marriott was unfortunately ill and has been in hospital and had to have his appendix out, so we’re a bit short on the numbers in terms of the strike force right now.”
Frustrating times once again for Marriott, who had looked sharp during the opening couple of games and suffered a terrible injury at the beginning of last season.
More Wrexham opportunities open up for Ollie Palmer and Harry Ashfield
Ollie Palmer and Harry Ashfield started the last match up front together and could be in line for further opportunities given the latest injury setback to Marriott.
Sam Smith is still not fully fit and Modou Faal is being eased back into the fold following thigh surgery at the end of last season.
New signing Ryan Hardie is expected to recover for the Wellington match after suffering a concussion against Melbourne but Palmer and Ashfield will once again get minutes under their belt.
Both players have uncertain futures at the club but cannot say they haven’t been given the chance to impress in this pre-season campaign. It is up to them to now grasp it by getting on the scoresheet against Wellington.