SAM RICKETTS expects Manny Smith to be available for the busy Christmas period - but admits the centre-back could return to action earlier.

Smith suffered a serious knee injury in the 1-0 defeat at Solihull Moors on August 27 but has returned to training, although he is not fully involved in sessions.

Unlikely to be considered for selection just yet, Ricketts is pleased Smith is closing in on a comeback.

"Manny is not available for selection but back in training which is really good," said Ricketts.

"He is easing his way back in, not training fully. He is doing parts of training but when he comes back that is another top defender ready to come back into the mix."

Ricketts will hold behind closed door matches for Smith to build up fitness levels before returning to first team action.

When asked when Smith will be available, Ricketts added: "I don't know to be honest.

"I don't want to rush him, I don't want him to come back any sooner than he needs to.

"When he needs to get back up to fitness, then he will need a couple of behind closed doors games just to try and ease him back in.

"It is not easy just to come straight back in and play. He would be more than capable of doing it but you just try and ease him back in. "You look at what fixtures are coming up and make sure he is ready for certainly the busy Christmas period and if he is ready before that, even better."

Ricketts signed Jake Lawlor from Salford City with Smith set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Lawlor has helped Wrexham take their tally to 14 clean sheets in 22 league and cup games this season and he earned praise from his manager.

"Jake came in when Manny was injured but the biggest compliment you could pay Jake is that he has really settled in and - I don't mean this in a negative way - no-one has really noticed that he has been playing or we have missed Manny," he added.

"He has come in and added his own style onto the team as well.

"A very good player who has settled in and hit the ground running.

"It wasn't easy for him because he hadn't had pre-season games but he has been excellent."