500 and counting for new Wrexham skipper

13 August 2010

Midfielder Dean Keates has two reasons to celebrate tomorrow, writes Richard Williams.

Having been officially named as the new captain, summer signing Keates will lead Wrexham out tomorrow.

The 32-year-old, who has won six promotions in his career, will also be making his 500th career appearance and wants to mark the occasion with an opening day victory.

“I am surprised because I thought it was 497 at the end of last season but it is a great milestone for myself,” said Keates. “I have been lucky enough to play that
many games and I have signed for two years here so I would like to build on that. I just want to keep playing. I do look after myself, but I will just take it one game at a time.

“As well as making my 500th appearance it will also be nice to lead the lads out for the first time. But it won’t mean anything if we don’t get three points.”

Manager Dean Saunders has got a full-strength squad to choose from for the visit of Cambridge.

“Everyone is fit and raring to, we are really optimistic and hopefully we get a good crowd,” he said. “I’ve got the team in my head, although I have got one or two things to decide on.

“Every manager will be thinking about getting a good start and if we can have a good first week it will be great. But Cambridge are a good team, they’ve signed some decent players and it won’t be easy.”