Courtney Baker-Richardson does not need an operation and expects to back in action for Crewe Alexandra in four weeks or less.

The striker dislocated his shoulder in the clash with Sutton United earlier this month and it was feared his season was over.

But Lee Bell has reported that the number nine will avoid going under the knife and is now working towards a return.

Christopher Long (thigh) could return to action against Wimbledon this weekend (Saturday, 3pm), and Matus Holicek (ankle) is expected to resume full training next week.

But Joel Tabiner (thigh) will remain sidelined for three or four weeks

Manager Bell said: “It’s good news for Courtney. We expected him to need an operation and be out for three months, but it will be three to four weeks. That’s really pleasing and he will get on with strengthening work now. 

“We are hopeful with Longy – he’s ticking all the boxes that he needs to. He could be involved this weekend but we will be mindful not to rush him, so it could be next weekend. 

“Matus will be out running next week, so that’s good because he looks like he is establishing himself as a first-team player when he plays now.

“Joel is going to be another three to four weeks, due to something totally unrelated to his previous injury. Hopefully, he will be with us for the run-in.”

Owen Lunt, who has been out with a back injury since mid-October, has started running but is unlikely to feature this season.

Jack Powell (knee) and Luke Offord (ankle) are progressing well in the rehabilitation but will not play again this term.