Ince + Johnson Bids Unsuccessful

Dario Gradi failed with ambitious attempts to land Paul Ince and Seth Johnson. Despite being happy with the form of youngsters Gary Roberts and Michael O'Connor, Dario wanted one more midfielder to help the side get a better defensive shape and to aid the development of the youngsters.

Paul Ince was a free agent having left Wolves after making an unsuccessful attempt to become their new manager. Ince recently declared that he doesn't feel able to play more than 10-12 games, so is looking for a player/coach role. The main stumbling block is believed to have been Dario's reluctance to offer Ince a coaching role, but instead wanted the midfielder solely as a player. Ince has since joined Swindon on a player/coach role after they finally managed to fit him into the wage structure allowing them to spend 60% of turnover on wages.

Seth Johnson, meanwhile, had made 4 appearances for Derby this season, scoring 1 goal in the process. The former Alex favourite has played as many games at left back as in the centre of midfield in recent times, so would have been an excellent signing given Crewe's lack of competition at left back.

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