Triple boost for Railwaymen

Posted Friday, December 22, 2017 by PA

Crewe have been handed a triple injury boost this week - but it will not provide any help in their Sky Bet League Two clash with Swindon.

George Ray (back), James Jones (pelvis) and Ryan Wintle (fractured tibia) have been long-term absentees, with Wintle the only one of the trio to have made an appearance this season.

Manager David Artell confirmed they are all now back running on grass but they will not be available until the new year after their long lay-offs.

Striker Callum Ainley suffered a facial injury against Blackburn but scored a stunner in the win against Crawley after having stitches and is in line to keep his place against the Robins.

Swindon are looking to bounce back following a four-match losing streak in the league, which has moved them to 12th in the standings.

Defender Ben Purkiss could miss out after sustaining a neck spasm while heading the ball in last Friday's defeat to Colchester, against whom he was replaced at the break.

Striker Keshi Anderson (groin) returned from a one-match ban last time out but was also substituted as a precaution and will be looked at ahead of the match.

Reice Charles-Cook (cheek) and Harry Smith (knee) were sidelined against the U's and are pushing for a return to contention.