Lowe and Nugent ruled out of Boxing Day clash

Crewe Alexandra will be without their captain Ryan Lowe for the visit of Carlisle United on Boxing Day. Lowe has been ruled out with a hamstring strain after he was forced off in the 2-1 defeat at Cambridge United.

Steve Davis has hinted towards a system change but could turn to Daniel Udoh if he wishes to keep most of his common starting XI together.

Young striker Callum Saunders is making progress from his own hamstring issue but Monday’s game may come too soon for him. 

Crewe are also without defender Ben Nugent (cheekbone) after he sustained the facial injury against Barnsley on Wednesday.