CREWE striker Calvin Zola is back in contention for a place in the starting line-up at Stevenage on Saturday, writes Chris Harper.

Zola missed the 7-0 victory over Barnet and the Carling Cup defeat by Ipswich after picking up a knee injury in training.

But the 25-year-old did his prospects of a recall no harm with a cameo role from the substitutes's bench in the 1-1 draw at Lincoln last weekend, which saw him hit the post with a header after replacing Joel Grant for the last half-hour.

Assistant manager Steve Davis said: "We were looking for something different in the game and Calvin gave us that.

"He kept the ball well and created chances, so on the back of that he's in the frame for Saturday.

"Calvin was unlucky to pick up a freak injury in training which opened the inside of his knee joint, but he's back in full training.

"He had a decent pre-season and started the campaign well, and thankfully he's not been out for any length of time."

Crewe will be prepared for a physical contest on their first visit to the Lamex Stadium.

Davis said: "Stevenage are a new team in the league and all newcomers tend to do well in their first season.

"They have strong players and are well organised, but we have the height to cope with their aerial threat.

"But we have to play our football, too, and Stevenage have a good pitch, so we'll go there confident."

Defender Matt Tootle is closing in on a return to the squad after picking up a hamstring injury in the Carling Cup defeat by Ipswich.

Davis confirmed: "He's not far away and I would expect him to be back a week on Saturday."