PHIL PARKINSON praised Callum McFadzean's professionalism after the wing-back took the final spot in Wrexham's squad.

Clubs in League Two are limited to a 22-man squad, although that number does not include goalkeepers or players who were under the age of 21 - such as centre-back Max Cleworth - at the start of the calendar year.

When he submitted the club's updated 2023/24 squad list after the winter transfer window closed, Parkinson opted to name 21 outfield players so that he could assess the fitness of Anthony Forde.

The wing-back continues to be troubled with a back problem that has seen him miss the last 12 games, so the Reds' boss has elected to name McFazean in his squad.

McFadzean was one of three senior players left out of the initial squad submitted to the EFL for the first half of the season and he has not featured in a single League Two game in 2023-24, with the 30-year-old playing one League Cup tie and two Football League Trophy fixtures before the turn of the year.

With eight matches remaining in the run-in, McFadzean is eligible to play his part in Wrexham's promotion push after being included in the final squad list.

"I have put Callum in the 22," said Parkinson.

"It is difficult when you are not in the squad but all the lads kept themselves going and Callum in particular has trained really well.

"He comes into the 22 and if he is called upon, he will be ready."

Third placed Wrexham continue the push for a top-three finish away at lowly Grimsby Town on Saturday.

Wrexham are five points behind leaders Mansfield Town with second placed Stockport County one ahead of the Reds with a game in hand, while MK Dons in fourth are also on the same tally as Parkinson's men but have played a match more.