CARLOS EDWARDS has set his sights on a return to first team action in January, following a knee operation on Wednesday.

In a message to Wrexham fans the Trinidad international said: "I can't wait to be back and to take on my first defender."

Wrexham boss Denis Smith said the four-hour operation had been straightforward and he expected Edwards to be discharged from hospital today.

"As we expected, there was some cartilage damage which needed repair and the medial ligament work which was necessary but as far as we can tell it went very well," he added.

"The main thing is to formulate a rehabilitation programme for Carlos as soon as possible and we'll be looking to send him to Lilleshall, as much to keep him away from the training ground as for specialist treatment."

Dean Bennett and Simon Spender are likely to battle for Edwards' place on the right flank this season.