DEAN KEATES praised supporters for their dedication and tremendous backing in cup games and he says fans can make a big difference as Wrexham aim to climb out of the relegation zone.

Nearly 1,000 fans made the 500-mile round trip to see an under-strength Wrexham side lose 2-0 against Rangers Colts in the Scottish Challenge Cup quarter-finals at Ibrox Stadium on Saturday.

Just three days later and Wrexham were back on the road, with 409 supporters travelling to Rochdale for a 1-0 FA Cup first round replay defeat - the same night Wales beat Hungary to qualify for the 2020 European Championship.

Wrexham return to league action against Yeovil at The Racecourse this afternoon and Keates insists supporters have got a big part to play as the Reds aim to improve their lowly position.

"All I can do is apologise for not saying my thanks after the game on Saturday," said Keates.

"It was an unbelievable opportunity for the football club and the fans to go up there and all I can say is thanks.

"And then to go to Rochdale in numbers, knowing what was going on with the Welsh national team it would have been quite easy to stay at home and watch it on TV.

"The big numbers that came to Rochdale would have seen how well we played and the fact they have given everything for the football club.

"We stay united, stick together and they can make the difference for us.

"We go into the Yeovil game on a positive and front foot."