Talented Kirk to be included in first-team squad for first time.

With forward Callum Saunders struggling with an untimely ankle injury, 18-year-old Charlie Kirk could be set for his first inclusion in Steve Davis’ senior squad for the visit of Rochdale tomorrow. Kirk was handed the 31 squad number last week and travelled to London as the spare man as Crewe drew 1-1 with promotion chasing Millwall.

The talented Kirk has been in fine form of late for the Development Squads and scored a superb volley in the 6-0 win over Altrincham in the Cheshire Senior cup on Wednesday night.  The Winsford-based youngest has caught the eye of Steve Davis and his staff and he could be named in the 18-squad for the visit of Keith Hill’s Dale tomorrow.

Steve Davis told crewealex.net: “Charlie came with us to London last week and he was given a squad number for the first time and I’m sure it would have been a good experience for him to travel with the first team squad and go to the hotel.

“I’m sure that inclusion has given him a lift and it was a reward for the way he has been playing of late. He deserves that opportunity and with Callum struggling with an ankle injury, he could be in the squad for the first time tomorrow.

“The young ones know that if they play well and train well then they can evaluate themselves into the first team squad. That is what they have to do.

“I’m not afraid to give them a chance if I think they are ready and  I wouldn’t be against putting Charlie on.

The boss added: “He is a confidence player and he has conquered overcoming disappointments when they occur on the pitch. In the past that has affected him a little but he lately he has moved on quickly and tried to influence the game. “