ROOKIE defender Chris Stokes will be offered an extended run in the Crewe first team with a view to a summer move to Gresty Road.

Alex boss Dario Gradi believes he may be able to snap up the Bolton player as he continues to use him at left-back, rather than recall home-grown Matt Tootle.

Stokes made his senior debut in Crewe's 1-1 draw at Torquay last weekend and Gradi says the 19-year-old will start against high-flying Notts County on Saturday.

"Chris was fine at Torquay and we've taken him with a long-term view," said Gradi.

"There's no rush to put Tootle back in as he's had a super season.

"So we'll play Chris as much as we can over the month of his loan and then probably let him go back and finish the season with Bolton, unless they want to let him go now."

While he has not completely written off Crewe's hopes of clinching a play-off place, Gradi has already begun his preparations for next season.

As well as keeping an eye on youngster Stokes – who has yet to be offered a professional contract at the Reebok Stadium – he will try also to strike a permanent deal for experienced loan keeper Steve Phillips.

Meanwhile, Gradi expects Byron Moore to make a return to action before May.

The winger suffered ankle ligament damage at Torquay, which could offer Luke Murphy an opportunity on the right flank against County.

Midfielder Ashley Westwood should be available after returning to training following an ear infection.

County will be without leading scorer Lee Hughes, who will start a two-game ban after picking up his 10th booking of the season during Monday's 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.

Gradi in Zola talks: Page 42