IT might not be the back-three everyone expected to see taking Wrexham down the final straight but Max Cleworth feels he has combined well with Eoghan O'Connell and Will Boyle.

The trio have formed the defence for seven of the Reds' last nine League Two outings.

During that time, Phil Parkinson only changed things around in the centre-back department when Boyle hit with a two-natch ban after being shown his second red card of the season in the 1-1 draw at MK Dons on February 20 with Jordan Tunnicliffe and Aaron Hayden featuring in the side for one game apiece.

Former Huddersfield defender Boyle earned an immediate recall after completing his suspension meaning Tunnicliffe and Hayden - both fit after recovering from injury - and Ben Tozer have had to wait patiently for their chance.

Cleworth has enjoyed featuring as the right-sided centre-back alongside O'Connell and Boyle.

"It's been really enjoyable," said Cleworth. "Obviously it hasn't happened before with us three playing together.

"Eoghan's very good on the ball in the middle and Will has got those qualities down the left hand side with his left foot.

"I think we have done well but we have got to keep going."

Cleworth has caught the eye with some impressive displays in recent months, playing his part in Wrexham's promotion challenge.

With with no shortage of defensive options available to Parkinson for the final eight games of the season, the 21-year-old refuses to take his place in the side for granted.

"I am enjoying it but I know there is plenty of competition still in the position," added Cleworth, who was named man of the match in Saturday's 1-0 derby defeat against Tranmere Rovers.

"Aaron and Jordan are back fit now and there's Ben as well.

"It is just a case of keep enjoying the games as they come but I know I have got to keep playing well to try and keep my place."