Mixed news for Dragons’ ahead of visit to Altrincham

WREXHAM boss Phil Parkinson has spoken of his delight at securing the services of centre-back Eoghan O’Connell - but also revealed that injuries to fellow defenders Aaron Hayden and Jordan Tunnicliffe could keep them out for the “longer term”.

The Reds boss was speaking to North Wales Live ahead of their National League clash at Altrincham today (kick-off 5.20pm).

Defensive duo Hayden and Tunnicliffe picked up injuries during the Dragons’ 3-3 FA Cup draw against Sheffield United at the Racecourse last Sunday. Parkinson has now said that those knocks could keep the pair out for several weeks rather than days.

“Obviously it wasn’t a position we were looking to fill but our focus had to switch quickly following the injuries to Hayden and Tunnicliffe,” said Parkinson.

Parkinson added: “With Jordan we’re waiting for the swelling to go down before we get a better idea of it. The swelling has been so bad that it’s difficult to put a timescale on that.

“With Aaron (Hayden) he’s got a calf injury and we’ll keep monitoring that on a daily basis but it’s looking longer term rather than shorter.

“It was a blow to lose two very good players but as a club we’ve responded very quickly and decisively.

“The key part is when you get injuries you’ve got to deal with the situation.

“I’m very pleased with how we’ve responded with an excellent signing.”

In terms of today’s game, Parkinson revealed that despite his delight at the FA Cup performances the league is very much the priority for his men.

He added that although Notts County continue to push his side at the top of the table, he and his players are focused on themselves rather than others.

He said: “We’ll be assessing everyone in training and picking the team that feels right for this game.

“We were so pleased with how we played against Sheffield United but the Gateshead victory was a bigger buzz for me.

“The key games are the league games and we’ll be ready for the weekend.

“We’re not looking at any other teams, we’re focusing on ourselves and concentrating on what we need to do.”