Steve delighted with Ness' creativity and work rate against Swindon

Steve Davis was pleased to see his creative midfielder Jamie Ness back to his influential best against Swindon on Saturday. The on-loan Stoke City midfielder had been struggling with a virus but still wanted to face Doncaster Rovers and Barnsley.

Ness laid on the best chance for Nicky Ajose in Saturday’s 0-0 draw and he was again one of Crewe’s top performers against Swindon.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “Jamie has been struggling with a virus but he put his body on the line for the cause. He has got over that now and he was more influential against Swindon.

“He was back to his creative best and his defensive work was good. He has become a bit of a marked man because of his performances and when that happens it is important that the other midfield players help out.

“Jonah (James Jones) can unlock defences and become more adventurous with his passing. He has the ability and we are encouraging him to get forward and get into the opposition box.

“Granty can do that as well. He produced a fantastic pass for Nicky to score his goal at Colchester and he can get goals as well.”