PHIL PARKINSON says Max Cleworth's injury is not a bad as first feared but admits it is a "huge blow" seeing the centre-back joined on the treatment table by George Evans.

Cleworth, who scooped his second Young Player of the Season award in 2023-24 and has been in outstanding form in League One this term, sustained ankle ligament damage in Saturday's goalless draw at Leyton Orient.

Hopeful that Cleworth is not facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Parkinson wouldn't put a timeline on when he will return and says the 22-year-old will continue to be assessed.

"I can't put a time on it yet but t's not as bad as we first feared," said the Reds' boss.

Cleworth was absent on Tuesday night when Wrexham suffered a second league defeat of the campaign after losing 1-0 to Stevenage at The Lamex Stadium.

Evans, back in the starting XI following an impressive substitute appearance at Orient, hobbled off just before the break and Parkinson bemoaned losing the midfielder.

"It is such a shame for George because he has worked hard to get back in the team," he said.

"He felt something crack, I don't know what it is but it is a huge blow.

"We had to reorganise and settle everybody down at the break but I thought Andy Cannon came on and was outstanding.

"He wasn't at his best at the weekend but I thought he came on and made a big difference."

Parkinson lost two key players during back-to-back away games and will take stock of things ahead of Saturday's clash with Northampton Town at The Racecourse when Wrexham, still second in the table, will aim to bounce back.

"We have had a decent run with injures so far this season," he added.

"Now things have caught up with us a little bit with one or two injuries and other things.

"We have just got to reassess after Stevenage and look forward to the weekend."