Boss says that he understands Colclough's frustrations after missing so much football at a young age

Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis says that his past injury misery as a player has only helped him understand the frustration Ryan Colclough has had to endure over the last 16 months. Colclough marked his return to first-team action on Saturday with a stunning injury time winner at Sheffield United and Davis says it is bound to have to been a relief for him after missing so much football at a young age.

The Crewe boss told crewealex.net: “I had my fair share of injuries in my career. I had periods when I was out for months and it was tough. You have to train on your own and have that self-motivation to get back. I understand all that because I’ve been there.

“It can be very difficult when you are injured and out for so long and I think because I’ve had that experience I have helped Ryan and understood him.

He added: “I’ve stuck with him because he has had some tough days and I am sure he is ready to repay the faith we have shown in him. He knows he has the ability to play an important part for us in the remaining seven games where every point is going to count.”