CREWE Alexandra still hope to sign hot-shot Nicky Ajose in time for Saturday’s crunch clash against Gillingham.

The 23-year-old striker has returned to Championship outfit Leeds after his short-term loan deal expired this week.

Three goals in five appearances have boosted the Alex’s relegation fight and boss Steve Davis is determined to keep him.

Stoke midfielder Jamie Ness is expected to agree to stay until the end of the season over the next 48 hours.

Both Swansea defender Alan Tate and Manchester City full-back Greg Leigh have already had their spells extended.

“We wanted to try and make it a smooth transition,” explained Davis.

“The defenders give us real strength and depth.

“We felt Greg was improving, he’s learning every game and shown his enthusiasm.

“If Jamie comes back, we’ll also be strong in midfield and I think that’ll be done for Gillingham.

“Now we need to tie up that forward position.

“The main thing is Nicky wants to stay and I’ve had a positive conversation with Neil Redfearn (Leeds manager).

“I want to get it done as soon as possible but we’re dependent on a quick decision from them.”

Watford loanee Uche Ikpeazu will lead the line against the 20th-placed Gills at Gresty Road as his deal runs until the end of this month.

Lauri Dalla Valle is also available alongside towering defender Anthony Stewart, who has signed a six-month deal.

Crewe agreed a small compensation fee with League Two Wycombe for the 22-year-old.

“I think it’s the right length of time because there are still things we need to see,” added Davis.

“We’d have been foolish to give a longer contract to someone who has only played one game.

“Those mistakes have been made in the past and we wanted to see more of him.

“There are sharp edges that need smoothing off and he needs some work but he knows that and we’ll help him become a better player.

“It’s a chance for him and we have a lot of defenders who are out of contract this summer so decisions are to be made.”

Davis will also try and brining in another experienced keeper after player-coach Scott Shearer opted to join Burton.

Only five loan players are allowed in a match-day squad, giving the Alex boss a dilemma going forward.

“Scott came here with the intention of being first choice but Ben (Garratt) has done very well,” he continued.

“He wants to play and reluctantly I agreed to let him go to Burton as their first choice.

“We’ll try and do something before the weekend but we might have to wait.

“We have one or two in mind but they are hard to get.”