NEW signing David Jones admits it will be "very special" to play for the club where his football career took off at a young age and earned him a move to Manchester United.

The 36-year-old midfielder has joined Wrexham as player-coach, putting pen to paper on a one-year deal following a successful trial.

Jones was brought up in the Wrexham area and he impressed during his time at the Reds' Centre of Excellence, leading to a switch to Manchester United.

Permanent spells at Derby County, Wolves, Wigan Athletic, Burnley, Sheffield Wednesday and Oldham Athletic followed so it seems fitting that Jones is back where it all began as Phil Parkinson's side prepare for a 14th season in non-league.

"It will be very special to play for Wrexham," said Jones.

"I was born in Southport but I lived in Gresford and went to Darland High School. I know the area really well and my family still live in Gresford so it feels really special.

"I have got a lot of ties with the club, family members that are season ticket holders and have supported Wrexham for many years and obviously I started here in the Centre of Excellence aged nine and 10 before moving onto Manchester United's academy.

"I always felt attached to the club and I have always been interested in how they do and the success of the club."

Although he will still continue to be available for Wrexham, who head to Solihull Moors for the first league game of the season on Saturday, Jones is looking forward to his coaching role.

"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else, especially for this player-coach role which will be a great one to gain some experience," said Jones.

"The manager has brought me in as a player based on what he wants me to bring to the squad and the team, but also there is an element of coaching as I start my journey on that road.

"I can use my experience in my playing career to mentor and help players, and depending on how much I play will determine how much on-field coaching I do.

"Just to be in and around it and to learn from the manager, assistant Steve Parkin and goalkeeping coach Lee Butler, they are all really experienced so it is a privilege to be able to still be a player but to also learn from those guys."