Ben Garratt set to get Crewe Alexandra start against Bradford City

The 19-year-old, who has made only one first team appearance so far, could replace Steve Phillips between the sticks on Saturday.

With the Alex now in the relegation zone after last weekend’s 3-1 defeat at lowly Sheffield United, boss Steve Davis is determined to shake things up.

“I didn’t initially want to throw Ben into a team that wasn’t doing well because I don’t want to affect his confidence,” he explained.

“However there is no point bringing in a young keeper from elsewhere when we have our own.

“Ben did very well against Walsall last year and there is nothing to suggest that he would let anyone down.

“He should be knocking on the door at the moment.

“I’ve told him I want him to keep the ball out of the net and I don’t care how he does it.

“We’ll look at him in training this week and make a decision.

“Sometimes you don’t know what will happen until you throw them in.”

Davis has signed Manchester City midfielder George Evans, 18, and also hopes to add more loan recruits in time for Saturday’s key home clash against Bradford.

Although the boss refused to divulge names, a handful of his current crop will also be allowed to leave on loan – likely to include keeper Alan Martin and defender Gregor Robertson.

“It’s a refreshing of our group,” he added.

“I’m going down every avenue to try and improve what we have got and restore some confidence and pride which has taken a battering this season.

“George is the captain of the under-21 side at City and plays just in front of the back four.

“He’s a good size and can manipulate the ball well.

“We want to give him some experience of first-team football.

“He can play the way we want to play and hopefully he can make a difference for us.”

Evans is expected to replace Ollie Turton (knee) while an injury to Vadine Oliver could open the door for Max Clayton and Chuks Aneke.

Harry Davis should also be ready to return at centre-half after missing the last month with a knee injury.