Gradi in talks over defender

Dario Gradi is in preliminary talks to sign an unnamed full-back ahead of Thursday`s emergency loan deadline. Crewe are currently short of defensive options in the wide positions with Matt Tootle suffering with illness and Mat Mitchel-King sidelined with a hamstring injury. Boss Gradi told the club`s official website: "I am looking to bring in a defender on loan, a full-back who can play on both sides. We do have someone in mind and we have opened preliminary talks with him and his club. "Hopefully that will do ahead and we will be able to finalise a deal before the game at the weekend."

Source: PA