Defender Michael Raynes was touch-and-go to face rivals Port Vale on Saturday after rolling his ankle in training ahead of our short trip to Vale Park.

The Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell chose not to risk the former Carlisle defender, giving him a few days extra recovery. The experienced centre-half has a chance of being involved against Newcastle United’s U-23s in the Checkatrade Trophy tomorrow evening.

David Artell told us: “Michael rolled his ankle in training and he was touch and go for the game. He was more touch than go. It was a blow because he was a colossus for us against Barnet the week before but one player does not define the team.

“We don’t fall to pieces because we miss one player and that is the same with all of them. Those who played at the back certainly stood up to be counted at Port Vale and that is what you have a squad for.

“It is never just about the 11 players. It is about the whole group contributing to make sure we get the victory.”