Rochdale vs Crewe Alexandra: John O'Sullivan suspended for Rochdale

John O'Sullivan will be absent again through suspension as Rochdale host Crewe on Boxing Day.

The Dale midfielder was shown a straight red card in the 2-1 defeat to Swindon on December 12 and has currently served one of his three-match ban.

Defender Joe Rafferty (stomach) and midfielder Jamie Allen (dead leg) are doubtful after missing the 3-1 win over Colchester last weekend.

Winger Nathaniel Mendez-Laing is a big doubt due to an unspecified injury while defender Scott Tanser is likely to miss his third game in a row because of a thigh problem.

Crewe boss Steve Davis could make changes for the trip to Spotland.

The Alex moved off the bottom of the table with last week's draw against Fleetwood but remain anxious for points and Davis must also be mindful of another game coming up on Monday against Shrewsbury.

Midfielder Adam King will hope for a recall after being benched in favour of the fit-again David Fox at the weekend.

Australian Brad Inman is also pushing for a start after two substitute appearances since recovering from a groin injury.