GARRY MONK has backed Sam Ricketts to be a success at Wrexham.

Former Wales international Ricketts, who was Wolves U16s lead coach, has been appointed Reds boss on a three year deal, taking up his first managerial position.

Birmingham City boss Monk, a team-mate of Ricketts when the duo played together at Swansea City between 2004 and 2006, has no doubt that the 36-year-old will do a good job at Wrexham who are preparing for an 11th season in the fifth tier.

Monk told the BBC: "I've said to him 'if you need any help or support I'll give it you' not that he's going to need it.

"He's a smart guy and will be very planned and organised and will work diligently.

"I wish him all the best, he's a very good friend of mine."

Ricketts was a vastly experienced defender who played for the likes of Oxford United, Swansea City, Hull City, Bolton Wanderers, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Coventry City, as well as winning 52 caps for his country, before hanging up his boots in November 2016 because of a knee injury.

Monk, who counts Swansea among the clubs he has managed, feels it is a good appointment for Ricketts and Wrexham.

"You have to throw yourself in there and you'll never know until you're actually doing it," added Monk.

"He's put himself in that line and I say all credit to him. It takes a certain type of character to put yourself on the line.

"It's a really great appointment by Wrexham - that they've given someone like Sam an opportunity.

"He'll need support, like any manager. We live in an instant world so it's high pressure but if he's given the time and the right support then he'll do an excellent job."