Wrexham forward Sam Smith is facing a "significant" spell out of action due to a knee injury, manager Phil Parkinson has confirmed.

Smith suffered the injury during Wrexham's 1-0 defeat at Sheffield United in the Championship on Friday.

The 28-year-old will see a specialist later on Tuesday to discover the extent of the damage and the duration of his absence.

"Unfortunately for... it looks like he's going to face a significant period on the sidelines," Parkinson said.

"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.

"Our initial thoughts are that he could need surgery, but we'll know more after today."

Smith's injury is a further blow to Parkinson and his team before they host Championship leaders Middlesbrough on Wednesday (19:45 GMT).

Forwards Josh Windass and Nathan Broadhead are still sidelined while Callum O'Hare remains a doubt after missing the loss at Bramall Lane.

Parkinson said their absence presents an opportunity for others including youngster Bailey Cadamarteri, the Jamaica international.

The 21-year-old, who joined from Sheffield Wednesday in January, has yet to start a senior game for the Dragons with his five appearances this season coming off the bench.

"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.

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

"He's trained well and he's ready."