Michael Raynes has told ifollow The Alex that the Crewe dressing room has been ‘sickened’ by James Jones’ latest injury set-back. Jones suffered a medial ligament injury in his knee on his return to full training after he had worked tirelessly to return from the pelvic problem that had ruled him until the New Year.

Jones was way on the road to recovery and was pencilled in to play some part for the Under-23s on Monday and then again against Runcorn in the Cheshire Senior Cup last night.

Raynes, who himself says he was out for an extended period as a teenager at Stockport believes Jones will come back a stronger person and stronger player once he gets back again.

The Crewe defender said: “We are all heartbroken for Jonah. It is a sickening for him after he had worked so hard to get back.

“It will almost be a season out and I know what he is going through mentally. I had the same thing when I was 18, 19 at Stockport. It is horrendous to be out injured for a long time but you have to come through it.

“I’m sure Jonah will. He will come back stronger as a person and a better player because he will really appreciate his football again. He will appreciate training every day and playing games again.

“He is a real strong lad and all the lads have been rallying around him and trying to lift his spirits.

Michael added: “He works his socks off. He will get down to his rehab, do the right things and will kick on again.”

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