CHRIS DUNN says playing takes precedence over coaching and he is determined to be Wrexham’s first choice goalkeeper next season.

The 29-year-old, who has signed a new one year contract, was brought in as goalkeeper coach last summer and he competed with Shwan Jalal for the number one jersey.

Jalal was released at the end of the campaign and although manager Dean Keates is looking to add another goalkeeper to his squad, Dunn is in no mood to hand over the gloves.

“Primarily I am concentrating on the playing side of things next season,” said Dunn. “I want to keep the number one shirt.

“I will still help out with whoever comes in, we will work together to get prepared for games. But my focus will be on playing rather than the coaching. I am still relatively young for a goalkeeper, I want to do well and help Wrexham in the process.”

Dunn, who has played for Northampton, Coventry City, Yeovil and Cambridge United, made 19 league appearances last season.

Wrexham were hovering just above the relegation zone at the turn of the year but Dunn helped the Reds climb up to mid-table and he was pleased with his performances.

“I am glad to sign the new contract and I am looking forward to next season,” said Dunn.

“I came in as player and coach as the manager already had a first team goalkeeper but I managed to stake my claim for the shirt in January.

“I put in some good performances and got the offer of a new contract because of that so I was really pleased.”

Dunn came out of the side for the last five games as Jalal was given an opportunity to impress, but it was the former who was retained by Keates.

“There were a few games left and nothing to play for so the gaffer rotated things,” said Dunn. “I was really pleased to help the club get out of a sticky spot but it was not just me.

“The lads put in some good performances to get us up to mid-table.”

Dunn's displays did not go unnoticed as he became a big fans’ favourite at The Racecourse.

“The fans were great,” said Dunn. “It helps when you are in the side and the team is doing well but I would like to think I contributed to that.

“I am really looking forward to next season.”

Keates is revamping his squad after Wrexham finished 13th in the National League and only Dunn, Mark Carrington, Paul Rutherford and Leo Smith remain from last season’s squad.

Five new signings have been brought in with defensive trio James Hurst, Shaun Pearson and James Jennings, along with midfielder Sam Wedgbury and striker Chris Holroyd, putting pen to paper.

More will follow and Dunn is delighted with the calibre of the new additions.

“It seems the manager is getting his targets and attracting players to the club which is great,” said Dunn. “I am sure he has got a bit more work to do yet but it is all looking positive.”