Evans insists Wrexham won't quit

By RICHARD WILLIAMS

17 April 2008

STEVE EVANS won't give up hope that Wrexham can avoid relegation until it is mathematically certain.

A run of seven games without a win, producing just two points, has left Wrexham nine points away from safety with just four games remaining.

The first of those last four fixtures is on Saturday at The Racecourse against Notts County who have still not secured their Football League status.

Wrexham could be relegated if they get a worse result than third from bottom Dagenham and Redbridge who go to Rotherham.

And while centre-back Evans doesn't need reminding of Wrexham's perilous position, he is not giving up – even though the Reds' prospects look bleak.

"It is disappointing and we all know that we have under-achieved," said Evans today.

"There is still a slim chance we can avoid relegation but we have to win our last four games.

"We know it is a big ask.

"All we can do is to go out, beat Notts County and take it from there.
"We know the situation we are in and why we are there.

"But never say never, and we will keep going."

Evans, out of contract in the summer, was an unused substitute in Sunday's 3-0 derby defeat at Shrewsbury Town.

Hoping for a return against County on Saturday, last year's Player of the Season said there is still plenty to play for.

"I hope to be involved," added Evans. "I was disappointed not to be play at Shrewsbury but I know why – because I gave a goal away at Milton Keynes Dons.

"Hopefully I will be back and help us win.

"We still have to impress the gaffer for next season. He has not said what is happening yet so everyone is fighting for places and contracts."

Manager Brian Little stated there will be changes for the visit of County following the Reds' recent disappointing run.

Having run the rule over a number of players in the reserves' 2-1 win against Chester City at Buckley Town's Globe Way last night, Little said he is also planning for next season.

"There will be quite a few changes," said Little today. "It needs changing and players can't have a gripe with that.

"At some stage it was going to drain out of them. They have been bottom and battling against it for a while and they look tired.

"Some people may say it is too late to change but the team I've put out to keep the club up has virtually failed.

"I feel justified to give someone who has not played for a while, or has come back from injury and been working hard, their opportunity.

"I need to try something else to try and win on Saturday and for the future."

Little, who intends a major rebuilding programme over the summer, said some players can still play their way into his thoughts: "A lot of players at the club I have got my mind made up – 100 per cent," he added.

"Some I have made my mind up about but need to see them in a game to make my mind up totally.

"My mind is made up in many ways, but we have still got four games to go and there might be a surprise in the pack somewhere."