Big Calv to return for Stevenage clash

Giant striker returns for Crewe plus other team news...

Crewe Alexandra boss Dario Gradi looks set to welcome back Congolese striker Calvin Zola back to the starting eleven for the nPower League 2 clash at Stevenage tomorrow. The giant striker missed Crewe’s 7-0 drubbing of Barnet with a knee injury but returned to action last week as a second half substitute against Lincoln City.

One of either Shaun Miller, Clayton Donaldson or Joel Grant is likely to miss out with the later being the most likely to make way as Gradi returns to his more favoured 4-5-1/4-3-3 formation.

Mat-Mitchell King will continue to fill in at right back and with Zola will add some much needed height against a tall and powerful Stevenage side.

Nick Powell is a certainty to return to the bench following his return from international duty with the England Under-17’s side.  Danny Shelley should keep his place on the bench after overcoming a slight knock during training.

Defenders Matt Tootle (hamstring), Carl Martin (shin) and keeper Steve Phillips (shoulder) all miss out.

For Stevenage striker Chris Beardsley and midfielder Darren Murphy (both shoulder) will definitely miss out although striker Charlie Griffin (concussion) may have recovered in time to face the Alex.

Scott Laird will continue at left back keeping Darius Charles out of the side whilst there are likely to be recalls for Tim Sills and Robbie Sinclair.

The two sides have never met in a competitive match and both sides will be confident of taking all 3 points at The Lamex Stadium.

Likely starting line up: