Alex Morris has told the club’s official website that the search for a new goalkeeper to challenge Dave Richards for the number one spot is on-going.

The club are seeking a replacement for outgoing goalkeeper Will Jaaskelainen after the young Finn lost his place to Richards last season. Jaaskelainen was released at the end of his contract and Morris is now pursuing a goalkeeper to push Richards to an even greater level again.

Crewe boss Morris said: “With Will leaving, the goalkeeping area is one we are focussed on. We have had a few names come up but nothing concrete has happened there.

“It is an area where there may be a lot of players available, whether on a permanent basis or as a loan but you have to get it right because it is a specialist position. If you have an injury to a goalkeeper then the next one goes in. It is a unique position in that sense because with any outfield player who can be a bit more creative and use the versatility of particular players.

He added: “You cannot do that with a goalkeeper so you cannot be left short or you are in trouble and we want to narrow our search down and get one into the building who is really going to push Dave for the number one spot.”