Boss says Toots will only improve with experience of new forward role

Steve Davis says that his defender-turned-winger Matt Tootle will only improve with the position once he finds his feet in the role. Tootle has returned to the starting line-up after a groin and hip problem had seen him out of the side.

Tootle returned to the starting line-up up at Carlisle and was arguably our most likely creator in a 0-0 draw. He went close to creating goals for both Max Clayton and Byron Moore and was probably not as selfish as he could have been in certain situations inside the box.

He certainly didn’t look to put others in when he lashed Crewe into the lead against Leyton Orient at the weekend with a wonderful close range finish and the Alex boss hopes the goal will do him a world of good. 

Steve told crewealex.net: “It was a really great finish from Matt. He showed that he can take a goal and it was a controlled finish that went into the roof of the net. It wasn’t easy and he will gain confidence from that.

“I thought he played the role well and was a menace to the opposition. He was difficult to stop because he is athletic and works hard for the team. It is a new role for him but he will only get better when he truly finds his feet there.

“I am sure he enjoys it and let’s not forget that he had been out for a few weeks and was short on match practice. Once his stamina is back to where he wants it to be, he will be a very useful player for us.”