DENIS SMITH today cursed the injury nightmare which continues to hit his Wrexham promotion plans.

Smith is down to the bare-bones and only had 12 fit professionals available for Tuesday's LDV Vans Trophy.

Non-contract striker Juan Ugarte and three youngsters helped make up the 16 man squad.

But the casualty list had no signs of easing and Smith was bracing himself for more bad news concerning Dean Bennett.

"Dean might have a hernia which would be a big blow and he is seeing a specialist today," said Smith.

"It might not but be Dean's had a problem with his stomach and has got to get it sorted.

"We seem to be getting long-term injuries and it's a nuisance. We're getting a bit thin on the ground and we have to be careful in training."

As well as Bennett, Carlos Edwards, Andy Dibble, Brian Carey, Jim Whitley and Craig Morgan are all currently on the sidelines.

Injuries to Carey and Morgan has left Smith with only three fit centre-backs.

And although the Reds' boss praised the current back three of Dennis Lawrence, Steve Roberts and Shaun Pejic, he said that Wrexham particularly missed the experienced Carey.

"There are only three centre-backs fit at the moment and we are walking a tight-rope," admitted Smith.

"Andy Holt and Simon Spender could push in there if it came to it but I've got to say the three defenders playing at the moment have been superb.

"We've been looking reasonably solid in that department and you have to remember that Roberts and Pejic are still quite young.

"But defending comes down to everybody doing their job, from the front two to the defence.

"Carey does a good job but we're not missing him as such at the moment. However, there are certain situations, such as his leadership qualities, where Carey is missed.

"But they've cleaned up his knee and it should be as good as new."

Carey has targeted a return to action within a month following minor surgery on his knee.

"The scope I had at the hospital went very well and I should be back in three to four weeks if all goes well," said Carey today.

"I had a few minor things to sort out. The knee was washed and cleaned out.

"It's been niggling me on and off since the start of the season and the time came to get something done.

"It was in my best interests to get it done sooner rather than later and it went well. The surgeon was delighted."

Carey says it has been difficult watching from the sidelines at a time where Wrexham are currently seven games unbeaten.

"Injuries are part and parcel of the game but it is frustrating watching when you are used to playing," added Carey. "You just have to accept it."

Smith says that he is unsure how long Whitley will be out while Edwards and Carey will not be back until the new year.

And as well as the centre-back position, Wrexham are running out of options down the right flank.

"Jim has a muscle injury and will be out as long as it takes," added Smith. "All down the right we have injuries with Dean, Jim and Carlos all out.

"Young Simon Spender has come in and done well but you do need your experienced players fit.

Meanwhile, Spanish striker Ugarte, who made a big impression for the first team on Tuesday night, scored in Wrexham reserves' 4-1 defeat at Stockport County last night.

Youngster Matt Done suffered a nasty injury to his hip during the first half and required lengthy treatment before being stretchered off.

Done sustained the injury when landing after a challenge and was taken to hospital.

* Supporters are reminded that Wrexham's match against League One leaders Luton Town at Kenilworth Road on Saturday is all-ticket for visiting fans. No tickets will be available for the away section on the day of the game. Tickets are now on sale from the Racecourse Ticket Office during normal opening hours. They cost £17.50 for adults and £10.50 for concessions.