Grant and Leigh expected to start against Rochdale

International call ups for Marcus Haber and George Ray this week will mean fresh opportunities for others when Rochdale roll into South Cheshire again, this time for a Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tie. Haber is away with his native Canada and Ray has joined up with the Wales Under-21s ahead of their qualifying double header against Finland and Lithuania.

Billy Waters has been placed on stand-by for the Wales Under-21 squad but has not been drafted in by manager Geraint Williams.

Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis will be forced into changes and he is expected to welcome back Anthony Grant after he impressed in the second half against Gillingham on Saturday.

Steve said ahead of our Rochdale clash: “With players away on International duty there will chances for others. It is up to them to grab their chance. Greg (Leigh) will start and Granty will play. He needs a game.

“It is a chance for them to run around and show their ability. “