Crewe boss could ring the changes for Blackburn game

Posted Tuesday, December 12, 2017 by PA

Crewe manager David Artell is considering making a number of changes to his squad for Tuesday night's FA Cup second-round replay against Blackburn.

The Alex boss has overseen just one win from the Sky Bet League Two side's last seven matches in all competitions and said any changes would have to be made on merit.

Michael Raynes made his return from a groin injury in Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Cheltenham and may continue, while fellow defender Zoumana Bakayogo (ankle) made an appearance as a second-half substitute in that match as his recovery continues.

However, George Ray (back), James Jones (pelvis) and Ryan Wintle (fractured tibia) remain long-term absentees.

Blackburn will be without Peter Whittingham and Corry Evans at Gresty Road.

Both were forced off against Peterborough on Saturday, with Whittingham (calf) potentially out until the new year and Evans (knee) a doubt for Charlton's visit on Saturday.

Rekeem Harper, dismissed in the first meeting between the two clubs, is free from suspension but Rovers are still without the banned Elliott Bennett.

Harry Chapman (hamstring), Ben Gladwin (knee) and Darragh Lenihan (foot) all remain injured.