CREWE Alexandra have their sights set on a double swoop ahead of Saturday’s trip to Wigan Athletic.

Boss Steve Davis hopes to end his long-standing search for a left back this week.

And now he also wants to add a striker to his squad with Marcus Haber on international duty with Canada next week.

Charlton’s Tareiq Homes-Dennis remains the most likely option but former target Stephen Kingsley is back in the frame.

Davis could also switch plans and take an experienced Championship full back who has become available.

‘With that position, I don’t want to gamble,” he explained.

“I want to get someone who has done the level.

“You have to take risks but I’d prefer someone who can hit the ground running.

“We have options and it’s up to me to make the right decision.

“We have taken our time because we feel it is that important.

“We need a natural left back who can give some defence solidity and also get forward and create problems at the other end.

“From an attacking point of view, we won’t have Marcus when he goes off with Canada.

“Callum Saunders might also go with Wales Under 21s so it leaves a hole.

“We haven’t got another big striker and this could crop up throughout the season.

“We’ve only got one loan player in at the moment but we might need one or two more to bolster it.”

Davis feels this week’s back room changes will have a significant impact.

Neil Baker has left his role as assistant manager, becoming head of recruitment, with first-team coach James Collins now officially number two.

Alex Morris has stepped up to take charge of the Under 21 Development squad with both Kenny Lunt and Lee Bell now with the Under 18s.

“Over the summer I thought long and hard about my back room staff and how we could best utilise their abilities,” continued Davis.

“I had to do some soul searching and make some tough decisions but I have some great staff here who have a lot of passion for this club.

“I just wanted us to work that bit smarter.

“James stepping up is a natural progression.

“That was always the plan going forward.

“It’s important to promote from within, he is ready and although it will be challenging along the way, he’s well equipped to handle it.”

Withdrawn in the 3-3 draw at home to Bury, George Ray should be back in the side as Crewe target an upset in Wigan.

“He got a band in the throat and found breathing more difficult,” added Davis.

“We have checked everything over and he’ll be fine and available for the game at Wigan.”