Crewe V Walsall at The Alexandra Stadium : Match Preview

26 April 2013 11:31
Crewe V Walsall - view commentary, squad, and statistics of the game live.


Alex look to future

Crewe will field an entirely homegrown XI for their last game of the season at home to Walsall.

Boss Steve Davis revealed his intentions after the 1-0 win against Sheffield United which ended the club's four-match losing streak that had followed their Johnstone's Paint Trophy final win.

With Alex unable to finish higher than their current position - barring a 22-goal swing between Notts County and themselves - Davis will take the opportunity to showcase the latest batch of young prospects.

However, only goalkeeper Ben Garrett is expected to make his debut, with a number of graduates already first-team regulars.

Defenders Harry Davis and Kelvin Mellor and striker Ajay Leitch-Smith are expected to retain their places in the team, while skipper Luke Murphy hopes to shake off a groin problem to lead the side

The likes of George Ray, Matt Tootle, Ollie Turton and Max Clayton could be called on to play.

Walsall manager Dean Smith will hand a late fitness test to Andy Taylor.

The defender has missed his side's last two matches with a hamstring problem but he could be ready in time to play some part at the weekend.

Captain Andy Butler has a broken toe and will definitely miss out again.

Smith has no fresh injury or suspension problems and could be tempted to shuffle his pack.

The Saddlers, who sit eighth in the npower League One table, are unable to finish in the play-off positions following Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bury and other results going against them.

This clash could be a good opportunity for Smith to give experience to some younger players.

Source: PA