Pope nears Vale return
Tom Pope could return to the Port Vale squad for the visit of his former club Crewe.
Pope has missed the last 13 matches with a knee injury but the striker, who, despite his lengthy absence, remains the Valiants' joint-top scorer with nine goals this season, might be included on the bench on Saturday.
Northern Ireland international defender Ryan McGivern, who injured his arm against Coventry last month, is also "very, very close" to making a return to the squad, according to Vale manager Rob Page.
The likes of Chris Lines, Colin Daniel, Byron Moore and Dany N'Guessan are options for Page should he wish to make changes to his starting line up for the derby clash.
Crewe will be forced into a defensive reshuffle if Jon Guthrie cannot shake off a knee injury.
The centre-back came off at half-time in the 2-1 loss to Notts County and is rated as doubtful, with George Ray, Adam Dugdale and Anthony Stewart all in line to replace him in the starting XI.
The Alex are likely to be without their captain once again as Matt Tootle continues to be sidelined by an ankle problem.
Midfielder Brad Inman has returned to training following his virus and is available if manager Steve Davis elects to bring him into the fold.
Source: PA
