Although the boss would like to play as many games as quickly as possible in a congested season, a short break will still provide benefits.
The enforced break over the New Year period is set to benefit Crewe Alexandra’s injured players. Crewe Alexandra have been unable to play since Boxing Day due to positive coronavirus tests at opponents, Rochdale and Shrewsbury Town.
And with the Alex out of the FA Cup, as it stands, the club’s next League One fixture is not until Saturday’s 16th January away game at Plymouth Argyle.
Defender Olly Lancashire, will welcome the extended break after suffering a calf strain in the warm up prior to our Boxing Day fixture against Fleetwood Town. The centre-half had to be replaced at the 11th hour by youngster Travis Johnson, with Luke Offord switching back into the centre to partner Omar Beckles.
Midfielders, Josh Lundstram and Callum Ainley, and defender Donervon Daniels are more long-term absentees but may have more games to play later on in the season due to a congested fixture list.
Club captain Perry Ng has one game to serve of his suspension and is set to miss that trip to Plymouth in the middle of the month.