Lowe knows his body better than most says Steve Davis as he looks to protect veteran striker.

Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis says he will continue to remain cautious with his loan signing Ryan Lowe after he handed him his first start against Oldham at the weekend. Lowe worked tirelessly for the cause until he was withdrawn for young Callum Saunders with 20 minutes remaining.

Crewe ran out 1-0 winners with Adam King scoring the only goal of the game but everyone was impressed with Lowe’s infectious work ethic.

Davis says that he will continue to use Lowe, 37, sparingly so we can continue to get the best out of him. The former Shrewsbury, Tranmere and MK Dons striker netted a dramatic winner on his second debut for the Railwaymen when coming off the bench at Colchester.

Steve told crewealex.net: “We will continue to manage Ryan, so we get the best out of him. We don't him to suffer an injury because we push him too quickly. I thought Ryan was ready to start against Oldham but we knew he wouldn’t be able to complete 90 minutes. It was pre-planned to give him 70 minutes and then replace him with another forward. This time it was Callum (Saunders).

“Ryan knows his body better than anyone and he will know when he needs a rest. He is 37 and is vastly experienced and he will know what is best for him.

“We know what an asset he can be for us and it is important that he remains fit and available during his time here.”