Davis' defensive outlook
Alex coach looking for replacements with injury and suspension rife
Last Updated: February 6, 2012 1:02pm
Steve Davis: Crewe boss looking to loan market to bolster his squad
Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis admits he will have to resort to the loan market after further blows have left his squad depleted.
Davis had been on the lookout for defensive recruits during the January transfer window but, with the deadline passing before he was able to secure a deal, the manager has acknowledged that his only option will be a loan swoop.
Crewe captain Dave Artell had already been ruled out of this Saturday's derby against Port Vale through suspension but the centre-back is set for longer on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury.
Davis is also without the services of Adam Dugdale, who is serving a three-game suspension, and having lost out in the race to sign Southampton's Jack Saville, the Crewe manager is looking for temporary replacements.
"We'll be able to look at the loan market again this week," he said.
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"A week is a long time in football and there could be some decent players available.
"We'd hope there will be a little bit of business done on our part.
"Dave came out of training feeling a tweak. We'll have to cover that situation as Duggie will be out for a while."
Meanwhile Davis could be boosted by the return of utility man Lee Bell who has the ability to fill in at the back as well as playing regularly in midfield.
"Lee has started running again and he isn't going to be more than three weeks," he added. "He's really eager to get back."
