Johnson won't rush Kelly
Oldham manager Lee Johnson is likely to again exercise caution over Liam Kelly's hamstring injury against Crewe.
It was hoped the midfielder, who has missed the 4-0 and 7-0 thrashings against Yeovil and MK Dons respectively, would return over the festive period but Johnson does not want to risk losing one of his star players for even longer by rushing him back.
He could have injury headaches elsewhere too, with Joseph Mills coming off against the Dons with an ankle knock.
Club captain Adam Lockwood (knee) is edging closer to a return while Johnson may consider a raft of changes following the most recent two results.
Lauri Dalla Valle remains doubtful for Crewe's visit due to an ankle problem.
The Railwaymen's manager Steve Davis had to contend with a lengthy casualty list for the win over Bristol City and Alan Tate's loan has since expired so the defender has returned to Swansea.
Matt Tootle (thigh) and Jon Guthrie (illness) played for the development squad on Tuesday, but back-up goalkeeper Scott Shearer missed out due to feeling unwell.
Davis hopes Chris Atkinson (heel) can feature but Adam Dugdale (knee) may not play again until 2015. Billy Waters is resting a problematic hamstring, Ryan Colclough (pelvis), is out until the new year and Brad Inman missed all of last week's training through illness.
Source: PA
