Crewe Alexandra vs Colchester United preview - Alex hopeful of illness respite

Posted Friday, September 26, 2014 by PA

Crewe are hopeful the virus which has spread through their camp will ease in time for Colchester's visit to Gresty Road.

The likes of Thierry Audel, Anthony Grant, Jon Guthrie and Lee Molyneux have all been struck down by illness, while Adam Dugdale missed the 6-1 loss to MK Dons after feeling unwell, but the Alex are confident the bug could clear in time.

Alan Tate was signed on loan from Swansea this week and could make his debut while Febian Brandy (calf) may play more of a role after coming off the bench against the Dons.

Forward Ryan Colclough (hernia) is still a couple of weeks away from action while Harry Davis (knee) is looking at an October return.

Colchester's teenage loan signing Rhys Healey could make his first appearance for the club.

Healey, who arrived recently from Cardiff on a three-month loan deal, has been waiting for international clearance but is expected to feature at the weekend.

Fellow striker Freddie Sears overcame a back problem to play the full 90 minutes in last week's goalless draw against Bradford and is likely to resume up front.

Winger Drey Wright (knee) made his first appearance since the opening day last week as a late substitute and is hoping to play a bigger role as the U's chase only their second league win of the season.