Steve says experienced Swan has made a great impression on his young squad

Steve Davis has told the club’s official web-site that he would seriously consider turning Alan Tate’s loan deal into a move permanent arrangement next season if the experienced defender fancies a move to South Cheshire. The Alex boss has been full of praise for the Swansea City man ever since the 32-year-old came in on loan initially in September. His loan was extended after the 93 days rule to take him through to the end of the season.

Tate has made 18 appearances this season for the Railwaymen and he has played a key role in helping transform our season.

Tate’s experience, calmness and leadership qualities have certainly helped a relatively young group and the Alex boss says he is an ideal character to have amongst the Crewe squad.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “Alan has added quality and experience to the group, as we thought he would do. Of course, I would like to keep him beyond this year if we could but I don’t know what his career path is.

“I am sure we will have a conversation about that before the end of the season, but he knows what we think about him. He is a really good footballer and a good guy to have around the younger ones. He has been there and done it.

“Alan is the type of player we would like to add to our squad of players because we know that he makes a difference to us when he plays. He has also made a difference around the place because of the type of guy he is, but I don’t know what his future is at the moment.

He added: “I am sure there would be a number of factors that will come into his thinking, with his family right the top priority.”