CREWE plan to offer goalkeeper Steve Phillips a permanent deal in the summer ... even though he could miss the start of next season.

Loanee Phillips hopes to postpone surgery on a troublesome shoulder until the end of the season, but is concerned a lengthy spell on the sidelines could jeopardise his hopes of staying on at Gresty Road.

Crewe manager Dario Gradi said: "Our plans are to keep Steve, although I think any surgery will mean his recovery will take a bit of time.

"He might be fit for the start of next season, but if not we will have to make sure the reserve-team keeper is good enough."

Gradi has been impressed by the contribution Phillips has made since joining Crewe last November, and not only on the pitch.

The 31-year-old Bristol Rovers player has volunteered to coach youngsters on community courses at the Alex's Shavington Soccer Centre.

Hopes of signing Phillips permanently during the transfer window faded when it became clear his parent club were unwilling to sanction a pay-off to make up a difference between his old wages and those on offer at Crewe.

After agreeing a loan extension, Phillips promised to review his options in May when he is due to become a free agent.

But he stressed: "I'd love to stay at Crewe.

"It's a great set-up here and I'm involved in the coaching down at the Soccer Centre. Let's see what happens in the summer first.

"Crewe need to see what the surgeon says."

After falling out of favour at the Memorial Ground, Phillips enjoyed a three-month loan stint at League Two rivals Shrewsbury.

Since joining Crewe he has made 22 appearances, but admits he has been playing through the pain barrier.

"It's been a bit of a struggle," he added. "After about 10 games I had an injection which helped take the pain away.

"But I'm a tough soldier and hopefully I'll be able to get through until the end of the season. I've not talked with the club about my future yet, but I know the shoulder injury might need an operation."