Wrexham Injury Blow: Sam Smith Faces Possible Knee Surgery

Wrexham striker Sam Smith could require surgery after suffering a knee injury against Sheffield United, with the absence coming at the worst possible time for the Red Dragons, following an inconsistent start to their second season in the Championship. Phil Parkinson has confirmed the absence: "Unfortunately for... it looks like he's going to face a significant period on the sidelines," Parkinson said, although no recovery timetable has been announced.

Smith came off at half-time in Friday’s 1-0 defeat at Bramall Lane, alongside returning defender Max Cleworth. "He came off against Sheffield and went back and carried on and his knee swelled up significantly the next day. He sees a specialist this afternoon (Tuesday) and we will know more then.”

The forward tested Michael Cooper with a header in stoppage time, but Wrexham couldn't recover from Ben Brereton Díaz’s first-half goal. “Our initial thoughts are that he could need surgery, but we'll know more after today." Parkinson added.

The setback comes less than three weeks after Smith scored in the 4-1 victory over Preston North End, and during a period when Wrexham have struggled in front of goal, failing to convert in the last two league fixtures.

Josh Windass and Nathan Broadhead are still out injured, with Callum O'Hare remaining a doubt after missing the loss at Bramall Lane on Saturday. Jamaican international Bailey Cadamarteri could be in line for more minutes given the number of absences, with Parkinsons confirming the young striker has trained well this week: "He's trained well and he's ready." Cadamarteri joined Wrexham from Sheffield Wednesday in February 2026, having scored six goals in 52 league appearances for the Owls. "That's what happens in football clubs, people come out of the side and other people say, 'this is my chance to step up to the plate and show what I'm all about'," Parkinson added. "Undoubtedly Bailey's going to get some game time and I'm looking forward to seeing that. Parkinson, who is under pressure following the inconsistent start, will hope these opportunities are grabbed with both hands, if they are to get positive results against Middlesbrough and Wolves this week,

"Bailey's ready and chomping at the bit, and with Sam's injury he's going to get an opportunity and more game time.”

Wrexham have also lost consecutive matches against Blackburn and Sheffield United, managing only one shot on target in each fixture. Losing another option in attack increases the pressure within the squad to step up as they face a challenging week before the international break. “He's trained well and he's ready."

Parkinson’s side host Championship leaders Middlesbrough on Wednesday before welcoming Wolves on Saturday.

Sam Smith joined Wrexham from Reading in January 2025 and quickly helped deliver a historic third successive promotion. He scored seven League One goals, including a double in the decisive 3-0 victory over Charlton Athletic that secured Championship football.

After a disrupted pre-season, Smith proved his worth in the following campaign, finishing with ten goals across all competitions as Wrexham placed seventh. His contribution earned a new contract until 2029, signed in August 2026. However, this season has proved tougher, with just one goal in 13 league appearances, leaving the striker seeking greater consistency as Wrexham struggle to build momentum.