TWO players are back to bolster the ranks for Wrexham's clash against Morecambe on Saturday but Phil Parkinson has been dealt a blow with the news that Jordan Tunnicliffe is facing another spell on the sidelines.

Wing-backs Jacob Mendy and James McClean missed the 2-0 defeat against Accrington Stanley at the weekend as the duo were away on international duty with Gambia and Republic of Ireland respectively.

Although both players return for the League Two showdown with the Shrimps at The Racecourse, Tunnicliffe will miss out.

The centre-back has been struggling with a back problem but although he returned as a late substitute in the 2-0 win against Gillingham 11 days ago, he has suffered a setback and was absent from the squad against Accrington.

"Jordan is struggling unfortunately," said the Reds' boss.

"We feel his problem with his hamstring is coming from his back so Jordan is going to be out for a period of time.

"Exactly what that is I am not sure yet.

"It really is tough for Jordan but unfortunately we can't do anything about it.

"We have just got to try and get him back fit and once he is back fit this time, hopefully we can keep him out on the training pitch."

Tom O'Connor, a midfielder who has been playing in defence, sustained an injury at The Crown Ground on Saturday and went off at half-time, although Parkinson says it is not serious.

"Tom has got a slight tightness in his groin and didn't feel himself," said Parkinson.

"Sometimes when you have that awareness of something in a game, it can be on your mind and it probably affected him a little bit.

"He didn't have his best start in a game but the substitution was purely because of his injury.

"He has been outstanding for us so we will just assess him as the week goes on but we have got good players to come in if he's not right.

"We will give Tom every chance but if it's not this week, he'll be close to be being fit for next week."

Wing-back Ryan Barnett, centre-half Eoghan O'Connell and striker Steven Fletcher remain out of action but the trio are making good progress.

"Eoghan was back on the grass yesterday at quite a low level," said Parkinson

"Steven keeps making progress, a natural healing process has got to take place after you have had an operation but generally he's pleased with how the knee feels.

"Ryan has had the brace off and we are pleased with the stability of the knee. 

"He will be back running on Thursday but there is still a time before he's back."

Injuries have caused disruption but Wrexham strung an 11-game unbeaten run together before losing against Accrington with the loss leaving the Reds fourth in the table, eight points behind leaders Stockport County.

Parkinson feels the absences finally caught up with the Reds. 

"We have had a lot to contend with over the last month or so," he added.

"A lot of injuries, international call-ups and it probably caught up with us a little bit if we are honest.

"But Jacob and James are back for Saturday which is good."