Chester caretaker manager Simon Davies will be without Simon Marples for the visit of Wrexham.

Vital game for both sides

Chester caretaker manager Simon Davies will be without Simon Marples for the visit of rivals Wrexham. Marples, 32, is currently involved in a contractual dispute with the club and is unlikely to be involved on Sunday. Davies will again be without long-term injury casualty Nathan Lowndes. The striker is set to undergo an independent medical examination and could be forced to retire if it is found that his back problem will not stand up to the rigours of professional football. But Davies is able to call on midfielder Mark Hughes who returns from a two-match ban as he attempts to improve the Blues' dreadful run which has seen them record only one win in their last 15 league outings.

Wrexham news

Wrexham boss Brian Little has a couple of new injury worries ahead of his side's trip. Midfielder Danny Sonner has been struggling with an Achilles problem and is doubtful for the game at the Saunders Honda Stadium. Defender Steve Evans has damaged knee ligaments and will require a late fitness test. Rob Duffy is looking to make his first full appearance for the club after making a substitute appearance against Mansfield. Neil Roberts is expected to miss out with an ankle knock, while Danny Williams (back) and Eifion Williams (hamstring) remain sidelined. The Dragons are desperate for a win as they are four points adrift of nearest rivals Mansfield after a run of just two wins in 15 games - and none in their last four.