Checks will be made on a trio of Crewe Alexandra players ahead of Saturday’s visit of Doncaster Rovers.

Assistant Manager Lee Bell says he is hopeful that Rodney McDonald, Courtney Baker-Richardson and Tariq Uwakwe will all be fit to play.

Defender McDonald came off after 76 minutes of the midweek clash with Tranmere Rovers, due to muscle tightness.

Striker Baker-Richardson came off at half-time in a pre-planned switch. And midfielder Uwakwe has missed the last two games with an ankle injury.

Bell said: “It was planned to take Courtney off at half-time, the data shows he covers a lot of mileage so we have to look after him. He also had a bit of tightness, but we are sure he will be fine.

“Rod will be assessed and we are hopeful he will be fine, too. The plan is for Tariq to rejoin the group today (Thursday) or tomorrow.”

Bell also reported that forward Christopher Long, who has only managed one outing as a sub this season due to an ankle problem, is getting closer to fitness.

He added: “Chris is out on the grass doing bits and bobs, and that’ll be stepped up next week with the aim of progressing him to full training by the end of the week.

“He has been working hard and staying after training, so we are looking forward to having him back.”

Callum Ainley (shoulder) and Charlie Colkett (hamstring) are still some weeks away from action.