Crewe v Burton Albion

Following Gillingham's defeat to Southend last night, Crewe go into their first game in two and a half weeks just four points of the playoffs. The Railwaymen will be hoping to bounce back with three points after defeat at Barnet last time out.

Keeping 11 players on the pitch will certainly help the Alex in their quest for victory over playoff rivals Burton tonight. Manager Steve Davis will hope that the training facilities, allowing the players to train throughout the winter freeze, will help the team more than they did this time last year.

James Tunnicliffe is set to make his debut for the home side after signing on loan from Wycombe last night. He will partner Harry Davis in the centre of defence in a new central defensive pairing as Dave Artell and Adam Dugdale are suspended following their red cards at Underhill. Carl Martin should move to left back with Matt Tootle back in his favoured right back position.

Jamie Lowry's return to Chesterfield could result in Danny Shelley making a rare start alongside Ashley Westwood and Luke Murphy in midfield, with Lee Bell still out after his hernia operation.

The biggest decision of the night for manager Steve Davis will be up front, with Burton loannee Greg Pearson unavailable against his parent club. Shaun Miller and Max Clayton are vying for the vacant centre forward position, with Miller the man most expect to get the nod.

As always, Nick Powell should be Crewe's main goal threat as the youngster goes from strength to strength in professional football

Burton's main goalscorer Billy Kee is not expected to be fit to start the game, which is good news for Crewe's new defensive partnership

The former Alex target man will be watched closely by Crewe fans as he continues to blossom for the Staffordshire club. Alex have form of conceding goals to ex-players so expect Zola to be a threat throughout

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