WREXHAM supporters have paid tribute to Manny Smith who has been forced to retire at the age of 31.

The centre-back announced his retirement last week after admitting defeat in an 18 month battle with a serious knee injury.

During his two spells at The Racecourse, Smith made more than 150 appearances and was a consistent performer in the heart of the Reds' defence.

Smith initially joined Wrexham following a successful trial and he played all 61 league and cup games during the 2014-15 season.

Surprisingly released at the end of the following campaign by then-manager Gary Mills, Smith signed for Gateshead but returned to The Racecourse after one season in the north-east.

Smith built up a superb partnership with captain Shaun Pearson in 2017-18 before sustaining the injury just a few games into the following campaign, but the former Notts County and Walsall man will be remembered as one of Wrexham's best players of the Conference era.

Fans were asked: What are your best memories/moments of Manny Smith in a Wrexham shirt, and any well-wishes for the centre-back who has sadly had to retire?

DAFYDD JONES: "Has to be his goal-scoring start to Keates’ second season, scoring twice at Maidenhead to give us a 2-1 win.

PONCIAU1: "Manny With my grandson Theo Jac who was mascot for the Salford game on Boxing Day 2018. Thanks for the memories Manny."

JONA DEVITT: "Pretty sure I never saw him miss a header. He was just a genuine pleasure to watch (bar that spell at Gateshead). A fans favourite for a good reason, great player, great guy."

BARRY DANIELS: "Manny was a great player and model pro."

TRACEY SMITH: "He will be missed, good luck to him."

WALSALL FC OFFICIAL: "All the best to Manny Smith in retirement #OneOfOurOwn."

MYPOINT2: "Very sad news. Good luck for the future Manny."