TYLER FRENCH is finishing the season as he started it in the Wrexham side but the centre-back is not taking his place for granted.

The 23-year-old has started the last three games after Aaron Hayden sustained a potential season-ending hamstring injury in the 6-1 win at Weymouth on April 26.

A regular in the opening three months of the campaign, impressing when playing both wing-back and in the centre of defence, French then found opportunities limited until his unexpected recall but he is pleased to be back in the team as Wrexham’s automatic promotion challenge goes down to the wire.

“If I look back at however many games I played at the start of the season, on a personal level I think I did quite well,” said French.

“I was frustrated to get taken out of the team but we have got a lot of good players in the squad and the gaffer has the final say on who plays.

“I have just tried to keep myself ready from when I am called on.

“Credit to all the staff for making sure not just me but every single lad who isn’t playing is on it and ready to just slot straight back in.

“Everyone knows their roles and responsibilities, I just want to keep my form up, keep the gaffer happy to be playing me and help the team win games.

“It is an important time of the season and everyone wants to be playing so I am glad I am playing.”

French was used sparingly from the end of October until last month’s return to the side but his early-season form impressed fans who he feels he has a “connection” with.

“It’s never nice to see a team-mate get injured but it is nice to go into the team and know that the gaffer can rely on me to go straight back in,” added French.

“I love playing football and I love playing for this club.

“I have noticed that the fans have taken to me.

“I would like to think it is based on my performances when I have played this season but I definitely feel a connection with the fans.

“They have been unbelievable to me and I just want to repay them with my performances on the pitch, and being reliable not just for them but everyone at the club.”