MARK CARRINGTON still isn't in a position to put pen to paper on a new deal - but the Wrexham vice-captain is just "thankful" that he is in Dean Keates' plans for next season.

The 33-year-old utility player arrived at The Racecourse in September 2013 and has made more than 250 appearances for the Reds.

But with clubs facing an uncertain future because of the coronavirus crisis, Keates has been unable to tie players down on new contracts ahead of the 2020-21 National League campaign which is set to start on October 3.

Carrington is one of four players who Keates intends to "open discussions with when we have a certainty on football returning," meaning he is still patiently playing a waiting game.

And although he understands Keates' position, Carrington can't wait to begin negotiations on a new deal so he can extend his stay at Wrexham into an eighth season.

"Obviously it is not ideal," said Carrington.

"It is not ideal for any of us and it is not ideal for the club but we are where we are.

"The situation we are in is not anybody's fault. No-one would have envisaged what has happened but it will be nice to try and get a contract sorted, and hopefully get the season started.

"It is a frustrating time but hopefully I get a contract offer in the next couple of weeks and then we will take it from there.

"We are just waiting on other peoples decisions before we can get the ball rolling.

"Hopefully we get a bit more clarity, the club will sort the budget out and they can start making offers, and we can start negotiating."

Carrington, who played for Crewe, MK Dons, Hamilton Academical and Bury before joining Wrexham, is not contemplating anything other than re-signing for the Reds.

"You have got to be thankful that I am still in the gaffer's plans and he wants to offer me something because I could have been in the same boat as a few of the other lads where there was nothing on the table for them," said Carrington.

"I would love to stay at Wrexham. Every year I say the same thing, that is why I am glad I am still in the gaffer's plans so hopefully we can get something done and dusted."

Staying at a non-league club for an eighth season is almost unheard of and Carrington remains focussed on helping Wrexham realise their promotion dream.

"It is not common these days, especially with a lot of one-year contracts knocking about and a lot of managerial changes," said Carrington.

"Wrexham has been a good fit for me and I still think we have got a bit of unfinished business so hopefully we can do that."

Carrington's future remains in the air but he is committed to the cause as he and his team-mates continue to maintain fitness levels whilst waiting to find out when the Wrexham squad are due to report back for pre-season training.

"I have been meeting up with a few of the other lads and we have done a few sessions," added Carrington.

"Everyone has kept things ticking other and doing their bit.

"If you don't do it then somebody else will be in to try and take your contract so you have got to make sure you are in the best shape possible for going back."