Owen Lunt is back in contention for Crewe Alexandra's match against Shrewsbury Town on Saturday at 3pm, manager Lee Bell has confirmed. The young midfielder has not featured this season while recovering from a back problem but could return to the squad this weekend after a strong week in training.
Bell praised Lunt's attitude and application during training sessions. "Owen has been very mature about his injury," Bell said. "It's not like a pull or anything, it's an overuse injury that we're trying to get rid of. But he has trained like a beast this week. I've had to calm him down! He's been an animal."
The manager highlighted what Lunt brings to the team when fit. "He brings so much to the team when he plays, so it will be brilliant to have him available. He offers something completely different to what we've got. Once he gets on that pitch, the tempo will rise because he makes it an energetic game."
Injury Update
Reece Hutchinson will definitely miss the Shrewsbury fixture with a calf problem. Bell said the midfielder has a slight pull but is "a fit boy, so hopefully his recovery time is not too bad."
Mickey Demetriou, who missed the last game with a calf issue, could be available. Conor Thomas is continuing individual work, with a decision on his involvement expected later in the week.
