Wrexham has injured players and others who still have to step in

The Reds beat arch-rivals Shrewsbury Town 3-0 in the cross-border derby at the racecourse on Saturday, defending their unbeaten start to the season and taking the lead in League One.

Several players are injured, so Parkinson, who can rely on a large, high-quality squad, should give captain James McClean and playmaker Elliot Lee, among others, a welcome respite.

“James played on Saturday with an injection in his foot,” Parkinson said. “He hasn't trained all week.”

“He took a bad blow to his foot and needs some rest.

“Elliot needs to see a specialist. Nothing serious, but we need to clear something up with him.

“We still need to fix a few things, but on the other hand, it's a great opportunity for people to get a few minutes.”

Midfielder Andy Cannon, who started the first four league games, missed the game against Shrewsbury through injury, but Parkinson had good news to report.

“Andy isn't serious,” said the Reds boss. “He had a fitness test on Saturday, but we have some good players, plenty of options and there was no reason to risk him.”

“He has a little problem when he gets tired, which causes his hamstring to tighten, but we can manage his workload and I expect him to be back next week.”

Ollie Rathbone made his first league start in Cannon's absence, while other summer signings Callum Burton, Sebastian Revan, Lewis Brunt, Dan Scarr and Mo Faal all come into play tonight as Wrexham begin their EFL Trophy campaign, which includes another home game against Wolves' U21 side and a trip to Port Vale.

“We have players who are not on the bench at the moment but who could easily come into the team and stay there,” Parkinson added. “I am firmly convinced of that.”

“It's just that, as in previous years, we've gone with the guys that got us across the finish line last year, apart from George Dobson.

“He came in and his performances speak for themselves. And of course George Evans was injured.

“The guys who got us over the finish line last year deserve to be in the starting line-up, but there are still some good players available.”