by Gwyn Griffiths

GUDJON Thordarson says he isn't planning a massive shake-up of Crewe's relegation-threatened squad.

Although the new Crewe manager has allowed out-of-favour striker Anthony Elding to join Lincoln City in a three-month loan deal, he says he will need time to assess players, particularly those still on a lengthy injury list.

"I think there will be some changes, but it will be a case of making my mark gradually. I don't think it will be a revolution," said Thordarson, who is likely to name an unchanged team for his first home game against Bristol Rovers tonight (7.45pm).

"January will be a key month and every game is important. I can't see any easy games and we will have to prepare for a battle in every single game," he added.

"There is no reason to change things and we may go with the same team. But there are experienced players I've not seen. Some of them I know, but I need to get them fit and see where they fit in.

"I also need to see how the players respond to me. The key is in their hands and if they perform and show I can have faith in them, then there shouldn't be a problem."

Elding's departure comes after he was restricted to 11 starts following a six-figure move from Leeds last summer. With just three goals to his name, he was last involved against Swindon on December 13.

"Anthony hasn't been playing and it is healthy for him to go and get some games. He goes to Lincoln with us having the right of re-call," explained Thordarson, who is hoping for a warm welcome from the home faithful if tonight's clash goes ahead.

Ground staff are confident that will be the case after covering the Alexandra Stadium surface since the weekend in a bid to stave off the freezing temperatures.

"It will be nice to be in front of the home crowd," said Thordarson. "The fans need to stay with the team to help us if we are going to get out of trouble.

"We need to start winning games at home and to do that we need to have that support. The home crowd have a big part to play.

"The boys did well on Saturday at Millwall and I think there is more in their locker."

Defenders Billy Jones and George Abbey are available after returning to training.

But while Michael O'Connor and Eugen Bopp have recovered from illness, none are likely to be risked.

Julien Baudet and Danny Woodards are still ruled out.

CREWE will play their Cheshire Premier Cup tie at Chester on Tuesday, January 20 (7pm).