Crewe Alex: No need to rush appointment

by Gwyn Griffiths

JOHN Bowler says Crewe are not yet ready to draw up a short-list for their new boss.

And the Alex chairman insists Steve Holland's successor won't be appointed until they are sure they have landed a good long-term replacement.

That could leave caretaker-boss Dario Gradi and assistant Neil Baker in charge of the first team until the end of the year.

Crewe's directors, including Gradi, met for the first time this week to assess those applicants who have been in direct contact.

High-profile candidates could include Burton Albion manager Nigel Clough, former Walsall boss Richard Money and Stockport's Jim Gannon, while Nantwich's Steve Davis is a local face in the running.

But the Alex chairman stressed: "We've had a varied response, but until we've got the right man we won't make an appointment."

Gradi continued his caretaker-ship by making a scouting trip to Essex today to assess next Wednesday's FA Cup second-round opponents. Lowly Blue Square Premier side Grays will host Crewe if they see off Carlisle in the replay.

Meanwhile, Stuart Green's loan spell at Crewe has been cut short after the player picked up a hamstring injury.

"He's gone back to Blackpool and he won't figure again," confirmed Gradi.