Boss backing for recalled Adam Dugdale

December, when he was forced off early with a head injury. The Liverpool-born defender has been an unused substitute since but has kept himself fit playing for the development squad.^stAlthough Harry Davis has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury, manager Steve Davis has stated that he has the perfect replacement in Adam Dugdale. Dugdale is set to start his first game since Shrewsbury at home on 21

Ahead of the trip to Gillingham, Steve told the club’s official web-site: “We always know that certain players will have to play their part at some stage and that opportunity has come around for Duggy.

“I am more than happy that we have Duggy to come into the side because we know he will do a good job for the team. He wears his heart on his sleeve and will be up for the challenge.

“He has been able to keep himself fit by playing the Under-21s and we know he is fit and well and ready to play. I’m sure he will do well for us.”

Crewe will be without Vadaine Oliver (illness) and long-term absentees Ryan Colclough (hernia) and Max Clayton (ankle) for the trip to Kent.