Defender could be in contention for return in Essex

Crewe Alexandra defender George Ray has made a return to training today and will be assessed before manager Steve Davis decides whether to take the Wales Under-21 International with him to Colchester.

Ray limped out of the club’s 5-0 defeat to MK Dons after aggravating his groin after half an hour. He was instantly withdrawn by the Crewe Alexandra boss as a precautionary measure and was replaced by Anthony Stewart.

The muscle has settled down since and Ray has deemed himself fit enough to train and put himself in contention for the trip to Essex.

Crewe will be without Jon Guthrie (knee), Chris Atkinson (knee) and Matt Tootle (ankle) for the trip to the Community Stadium. Ryan Colclough is back training but will need game time in the Development Squad before he is considered for selection.