SAM RICKETTS believes Wrexham's FA Cup tie against Newport County has "captured the imagination" and is good for Welsh football.

Ricketts' side have been drawn at home against the Exiles in the second round of the competition, with the game due to take place over the weekend of Friday November 30.

Although Wrexham are flying high at the top of the National League, Ricketts says the Reds will be underdogs against Mike Flynn's Newport who are currently sixth in League Two.

But with home advantage, and a possible money spinning third round tie the reward for the winners, Ricketts insists Wrexham will be doing everything they can to progress.

"It is a really good game and it has got people talking about the draw," said former Wales international Ricketts, who saw Wrexham book their place with a 2-0 first round win at Weston-super-Mare on Sunday.

"You either want an easier draw to try and get through or somebody who will capture your imagination a little bit and this captures the imagination.

"We certainly won't be favourites for the game, Newport will be, but at the same time we will still be doing everything we can to try and win the game.

"It will be good for Welsh football as well.

"On the balance of it, it is a really good draw. It will be a really good atmosphere, they will bring a few fans and obviously we will pack out The Racecourse as always and it will make for a great game."

The last meeting between the sides was a winner-takes all clash in the 2013 Conference Premier play-off final at Wembley Stadium when Newport scored two late goals to win 2-0 and clinch promotion to the Football League.

Ricketts recognises there is added spice to the game at The Racecourse and believes the tie could be selected for live television coverage.

"There are so many different things on it," added Ricketts.

"North v south Wales, you go back to the play-off final as well which is why Newport are where they are and we are still here.

"There are so many factors riding on the game, it has captured peoples imagination and you never know, it may end up on television as well."