Wrexham captain Neil Roberts says relegation 'hurts' (Pic: Sportspics)

Neil Roberts says Wrexham's relegation from the Football League is painful but believes they can bounce straight back from the Blue Square Premier.

"It's hard to take... hopefully the other lads are hurting just as much as I am," said the club captain, 30.

"You never really consider this position being linked with Wrexham but it's happened now and we all need to stay strong.

"It's easier said than done, but hopefully we can bounce back stronger."

Roberts, who has hit eight league goals this season, was born in Wrexham and came through the club's youth system before making his name with Wigan.

The striker returned to his home-town club in July 2006, rejoining on a free from Doncaster, and expected to be part of a successful squad at the Racecourse Ground.

But four season's of off-field turmoil - sparked by the club going into administration in December 2004 under former owner Alex Hamilton - have undermined Wrexham's attempts on the pitch.

That culminated on Tuesday night with a 2-0 loss at Hereford, ending Wrexham's proud 87-year membership of the Football League.

606: DEBATE I am absolutely devastated that we have been relegated RobinDragons

"I came back to hopefully be part of a winning side and the last two years have been tough," admitted Roberts, adding that he had faith in manager Brian Little's ability to restore their fortunes.

"The manager's got his own views on what he wants to do and hopefully he'll get the backing, I think he will be the right man for the job to turn it round."