Alex benefit from Ben deal (From This Is Cheshire)

Crewe Alexandra boss insists they can still push for play-offs

5:19pm Thursday 2nd February 2012 in Sport By Toby Robinson

CREWE boss Steve Davis insists his squad can still push for the play-offs despite failing to land reinforcements.

With midfielder Jamie Lowry returning to Chesterfield and Wigan left-back Jordan Mustoe opting for Barnet, Alex ran out of options on a relatively quiet transfer deadline day.

“It’s a little setback and these things happen during the season and test you for a reason,” he said.

“But the squad is good enough to concrete up the gaps with the likes of Danny Shelley and Carl Martin to come in.”

Former Academy star Ben Marshall’s £1m move from Stoke to Leicester City was the only piece of good news as Crewe benefit from a 20 per cent sell-on clause.

Davis admitted the unexpected £200,000 windfall will ease the pressure on the club’s current financial situation.

“I think the directors have had to dip their hands into their pockets a bit to keep the club moving forward,” he continued.

“It could help from now until the end of the season; keep the wolves from the door in terms of the finances.

“It won’t go very far but it’s better than nothing.”

While Crewe are likely to explore the loan market as soon as the window reopens this month, ex-West Ham left back Jordan Brown has arrived on trial.

The 20-year-old never made the Hammers first-team but featured for League Two rivals Aldershot during a loan spell earlier this season.

“He was keen to come so we’ll take a look at him,” added Davis.

“He’s unattached so if he is good enough, we might be able to take him.”

Crewe will be without Lee Bell (hernia) and suspended duo Dave Artell and Adam Dugdale for Saturday’s home clash against Accrington.

Both saw red during the first-half of a frustrating 2-0 defeat at Barnet.

“I was disappointed with both Dave and Duggie,” said Davis.

“They know they let everyone down but they will be eager to put things right when they’re available again.

“A win on Saturday would bring us to within a point of them and a lot closer to where we want to be.

“We have to bounce back but Accrington have done better than us and have been more consistent so it will be tough.”