Boss keeps his cards close to his chest on whether Lowe will start after heroics on Tuesday night.

Crewe Alexandra manager Steve Davis says he will remain cautious with his loan signing Ryan Lowe, as he eases himself back into competitive football. Lowe, 37, came off the bench to inspire a fantastic comeback at Colchester United on Tuesday night. He scored a sublime lob in injury time to win the game after earlier creating the equaliser for Marcus Haber to tap home from close range.

The Crewe boss says he will have to decide what role Lowe will undertake this weekend , whether to use him as an impact sub again or to start with him against Oldham.

Steve explained to crewealex.net: “Ryan needs games and it is great to have him here but we also have to be cautious with him because he has not played a great deal of football this season.

“Ryan wanted to come back and help us out. He is fond of the club from his first spell here with us and it is something we have done in the past, bringing former players back. Dario and Steve Holland both did it and it gives everyone a lift.

“Ryan can help the younger players here and he will be good for us, both on and off the pitch. He knows where the back of the net is and if he can do what he did on Tuesday for the rest of the month he is with us, then he is going to be a great asset.

“I will have to decide whether to start with him against Oldham or perhaps bring him on. Ryan is sensible and professional and he knows how his body feels. He will know that better than anyone and we will take guidance from him as well. “