Boss eager for club captain to remain at the club

Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis has revealed to the club’s official web-site that he is keen for club captain Matt Tootle to remain beyond his current contract. The 24-year-old full-back is out of contract this summer and would be available on a free transfer but Davis is hoping that his most experienced outfield player will consider extending his stay at Gresty Road.

Tootle endured an injury plagued season after initially going over on his ankle in October. After making a successful return for the club’s Under-21s, he suffered a set-back during training that consequently ruled him for the rest of the campaign. Tootle was nearing a return to action but the games just ran out in the end.

He was restricted to 18 appearances for the club during the last campaign, but boss Steve Davis is hoping he will remain with us and come back stronger next season.

Steve told crewealex.net: “Matt’s girlfriend is expecting a baby very shortly, so once he has spent some time with his family, I’m sure we will talk again about his future.

“I am happy for Matt to remain with us if that is what he wants to do. He is 24 now, so we wouldn’t receive a transfer fee for him because he will be out of contract but he has been a great servant for this football club and doesn’t owe us anything.

“I want him to stay but it is his decision. He may feel it is time for a fresh challenge but either way he will have our support.

The boss added: “He has been with us since he was a kid and loves the club. You can see that by now fondly and openly he talks about it.”