HUDDERSFIELD manager Peter Jackson has the deepest sympathy for Wrexham's perilous plight - although he won't be showing it come five to three on Saturday, writes NICK HARRISON.

"I know exactly how Wrexham and Denis Smith feel - we were in the same boat 15 months ago," said Jackson, who managed to turn around The Terriers' fortunes last season.

"We had only eight players when I arrived here. There was no assistant manager, no physio and I think I signed nine players in three weeks leading up to the start of the season.

"We were in a dreadful state. We had nothing. But we sold Johnathan Stead to Blackburn and ended the season winning the play-off final at Cardiff.

"We're going to make a profit this year and the club is doing well. As with all clubs in this division, we're just striving for that consistency on the pitch."

Although Jackson, who has former Welsh manager Terry Yorath as his assistant, will be going all out to inflict a fifth straight League One defeat on Wrexham, the former Bradford, Newcastle and Chester City defender hopes the Reds will survive.

"My message to Wrexham is don't give up. You can turn things around - especially with Denis Smith in charge," added Jackson.

"Denis did a tremendous job when he first started out in management at York. He's had a great career as a player and a manager and it's terrific what he has achieved at Wrexham.

"In times like these you have to be the manager on and off the pitch - a father-figure if you like. There's just so much you have to do.

"Just keep on fighting is the answer and I really hope Wrexham can pull through."