Crewe Alexandra are hoping to be handed a boost with the return to training of midfielder Paul Green. Green rolled his ankle in training ahead of the visit of Newport County and in his absence, youngster Callum Ainley, duly stepped up to the mark and netted a dramatic winner in a 3-2 win.

Ainley rightly retained his place for the trip to the MK Dons and helped us record just our second away win of the season thanks to Charlie Kirk’s first half winner.

Green’s imminent return could not be better timed, if the club’s worst fears are confirmed over James Jones’ serious injury. The Alex boss revealed earlier today that he suspects that the midfielder has suffered a fracture of the fibula.

Veteran defender Nicky Hunt is also improving and has resumed running again following the knee injury he sustained in that win over Newport. Hunt missed the trip to Milton Keynes, with Eddie Nolan timely returning from his own injury to partner George Ray in the back four.