David Artell has revealed that full-back Ryan Alebiosu has a ‘chance’ of making the weekend game against Portsmouth after suffering a back spasm in the 2-0 defeat to Wigan on Tuesday evening.

The on-loan Arsenal defender was forced off after 22 minutes and was replaced by Travis Johnson on the night but with his back beginning to ease, Artell says the promising youngster could be in contention for the weekend.

The Alex boss told crewealex.net: “Ryan had a back spasm and they can be uncomfortable and they can stiffen up very quickly. He landed awkwardly and was unable to continue but with those types of muscle problems they tend to ease off quite quickly.

“His back is getting better and hopefully he has a chance of being involved at the weekend.”