Crewe Alexandra forward Scott Kashket is expected to remove his supportive boot next week and begin light running and movement again as he steps up his rehabilitation from an ankle injury.

Kashket has not featured since the 2-1 defeat at Ipswich Town back in late November.

He was replaced early in the second half for Mikael Mandron and has made 15 appearances this season, scoring once away at Plymouth Argyle.

The former Wycombe man had earlier suffered a set-back in his rehab but the club are hopeful that he will be available for selection at some point next month.

Crewe are without Mandron for the visit of Portsmouth this weekend due to his knee injury.

Defender Billy Sass-Davies has been ruled out for the season with a blood clot in his calf but the club are hopeful of having new loan signing Ryan Alebiosu available for selection with his back spasm beginning to ease.

Meanwhile, winger Ben Knight is still receiving treatment back at his parent club Manchester City with no time frame on his return to full training.