Crewe Alexandra have received a double injury boost with news defenders Olly Lancashire and Nicky Hunt are making good progress in their bid to return to full fitness.
Manager David Artell was forced to play midfielder Ryan Wintle at centre-back in the 3-0 opening day home defeat to promotion favourites Plymouth Argyle at the weekend, starkly highlighting the threadbare nature of his squad after a quiet summer for the Railwaymen which saw the departure of club captain and defensive stalwart George Ray.
Speaking to the club’s official website after the match Artell said: Olly joined in yesterday’s session, although it was slightly modified for him. He will train again today, and we will see where he gets to. It is a long week in politics and a day is a long day in football.’
‘All we can do is wait and see.’
‘Nicky is running again but not really stretching himself as yet. He is improving, and both of them are not far off at all.’
Lancashire has missed the majority of the pre-season with a slight tear in his groin, but the former Swindon Town captain looks to be closer to a return than Hunt who injured his knee in a pre-season friendly against Wrexham.
Plymouth certainly took advantage of the absence of the experienced duo on Saturday, running out comfortable winners against a young inexperienced Crewe team.
Our View
While Crewe will not have to play a team as good as Ryan Lowe’s Plymouth every week, the return of two such experienced campaigners will surely help Artell’s young side.
Tipped by some for a playoff push this season, they must play as many games as possible to help Artell’s young team.
If Crewe’s medical team can keep them on the pitch, Artell might have a chance, if not then some of Crewe supporters early-season optimism will inevitably very quickly evaporate.
