GARETH EVANS is delighted that Reds' boss Brian Carey has shown faith in him.

The 20-year-old centre-back has started Wrexham's last two matches – against Barnet and Notts County – having not previously featured at all this season.

And being named in the side has been a big boost for locally-born Evans, who made nine league starts and three substitute appearances last term.

"I had been training well and I thought I did okay in a few reserve team games," said Evans today. "And you can do is work hard in training and see what the manager does. But I was not expecting to start as soon as I was available again.

"Steve Weaver said to me on the Tuesday before the Barnet game to make sure I train hard all week, and do well in the reserve friendly, because I might get my chance. And I was told the day before the game I was starting. It was a big boost after not being involved up to then.

"The gaffer has shown he is willing to give players a chance. It is a big squad and if someone is not doing it, they can be replaced.

"It is good the gaffer is willing to put me in for a big games."

Evans, handed a new contract in the summer, admits he has to focus on earning a starting place in the side on a regular basis.

"It's been nice to start back-to-back games," said Evans. "It is much better being involved, it was just a shame about the results.

"From my personal point of view, I would like a run in the first team. I have never really had that, where I have played quite a few consecutive games.

"Myself, Mike WIlliams and Matty Done have played quite a few games now and Weaves has said we are not youngsters anymore. We have to push on and I am aware of that.

"I want to establish myself and get a run of games in the side. And from a team perspective, I want to be in a team that takes Wrexham up the table."

Evans joined Northwich Victoria on loan last month but he was sent-off just 30 minutes into his debut for the Conference side in their match against Histon.

Having also picked up an ankle ligament injury, Evans said it has been an up-and-down start to the campaign: "I have had a mixed start," he added. "I thought I did okay pre-season, though I had a nightmare against Hednesford. Then I was not involved for a while and was only playing for the reserves.

"I thought it would be good to go out on loan – but I only managed 30 minutes at Northwich and then had to serve a suspension.

"When I was available again, I landed awkwardly and picked up an ankle ligament injury. That kept me out for a few weeks and when I recovered from that, my loan deal was up.

"But I have had my chance in the last few weeks and I am delighted."