'Quite serious, unfortunately' - Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson confirms double injury blow for Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's side

Evans, who managed to play 64 minutes against Sutton United, was notably absent from subsequent matches against Notts County and Milton Keynes Dons. Meanwhile, Jones suffered a late injury during the Notts County game, leaving Parkinson with the challenge of fielding an unfamiliar midfield lineup for the Dons clash. Parkinson has now revealed that both are grave injuries that will sideline the duo for a considerable period.

Speaking to reporters, Parkinson said: "Both look quite serious unfortunately for us. We have had set-backs in that department but that's the way it goes and we will have to address that."

Against Dons, Andy Cannon retained his position in midfield and was accompanied by Luke Young and James McClean, while Elliot Lee joined the action in the second half.

Despite not being a regular starter this season, Young showcased his readiness and delivered an impressive performance on his 250th appearance for the club during the match at Stadium MK. Parkinson hailed his contribution and stated: "I am pleased for Luke. Luke shows that you never know when you are needed and that is a great example for all young players coming into the game.

"You can get disillusioned when you are not playing and sometimes not on the bench but when your chance comes it is important you are ready to take it. Luke acquitted himself really well. He made the goal, he fought so hard in that midfield and he drove the team forward from that right-hand side."

Lee has played the most minutes for Wrexham this term and Parkinson revealed that he was brought on from the bench against Dons to provide him a bit of rest - but remains available for Gillingham.

"Elliot has played more minutes than any other player," he added.

"I just felt that to play him again after putting so much effort in at the weekend and the midweek game at Sutton would put him at risk of maybe getting a little injury.

"With the injuries we have got, I didn't want to take that risk. I said to Elliot: 'it would be great for you to come on after 60 minutes when the game has opened up' and he was magic when he came on."

The double injury blow poses a significant challenge for Wrexham as they continue to push for a second successive promotion. The Red Dragons find themselves third in the standings, three points behind leaders Stockport with a game in hand.