Tootle back in frame for Alex

Matt Tootle is in contention for Crewe as they take on struggling Macclesfield in a match with huge implications at both ends of the League Two table.

The 21-year-old defender missed three matches with a thigh injury and then fell ill just as he was scheduled to return against Bristol Rovers. He is not guaranteed a start against the relegation-threatened Silkmen, however, as replacement Kelvin Mellor scored against the Pirates in a 3-0 win and earned the man of the match award. Striker Max Clayton continues to step up his recovery from a foot injury, featuring as a substitute in the Rovers clash. A 12-match unbeaten run has given the Railwaymen a huge opportunity to climb into the play-off places.