AFC Telford United ready for Wrexham challenge

Full back Ryan Valentine believes AFC Telford United should be looking for at least three points from their Christmas clashes with his former club Wrexham.

The Bucks, who are currently just three points above the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone, will start as underdogs in the Boxing Day clash with the league leaders.

But Chirk-based Valentine, who played 54 times for his hometown club, insists Telford can surprise a few people in that one and the return fixture on New Year's Day.

"I don't think you can be unrealistic and think we're going to win both games but three or four points is a realistic target," said Valentine, 29.

"There have been one or two games at home where we haven't played well but we generally give most teams a good game.

"They need the points for their promotion push and we need them to help us stay in the league – it is just as important for us as it is for them."

Valentine, who has also played for Darlington and Hereford, admits he counted himself as a Wrexham fan growing up.

And he sees many similarities between the Dragons and his current employers.

"When I signed for Telford I knew they were in the same league and it was the first fixture I looked out for," he said.

"I count myself as a Wrexham lad and though I followed Liverpool as well, I tried to get to as many of their games as I could.

"Wrexham have a lot in common with Telford," he added. "They are a locally-orientated club, just like Telford. "Their supporters are passionate about the club and it's been good to see them take over.

"They deserve what they are getting at the moment but hopefully we can upset them a little bit in these two games."