ALAN Tate is set to be the first experienced player to answer Crewe Alexandra’s SOS call.

The 32-year-old Swansea City centre-half is expected to go straight into the side for Saturday's home clash – already billed as a 'six-pointer' – against Colchester United.

After last weekend's 6-1 mauling at MK Dons, boss Steve Davis is also hoping to add another striker and winger in a bid to stop the rot.

Tate, who joins on an emergency loan, has made 340 appearances for the Premiership outfit but hasn't figured for more than two years, leading to loan spells with Leeds, Yeovil and Aberdeen.

"We're still looking for more players and that's even more important after what happened at MK Dons," explained Davis.

"Some of our lads are struggling with this league so I have identified players to bring in to strengthen us.”

Recent loan signing Febian Brandy should be available after picking up a knock in that disaster against the Dons.

The 25-year-old Rotherham forward is expected to shake off a calf problem after impressing from the bench.

"Febian came on and gave us a bit of life," added Davis. "He showed glimpses of what he can do but we will obviously see more of him this week.

"We didn't start him because he didn't look quite right and complained of tightness in his calves."

But Davis says his side must improve, and quickly.

"There were so many poor performances, not just effort wise but in ability too,” he continued. “They had much more ability than us.

"We did not show any on the ball and we did not show any ability off it either.

“We just had nothing there, there was nothing in the tank to give. It was 11 players all below par and I don’t want to be associated with things like that.

“It was an embarrassment for us and our supporters. It really was shameful at times.

“I’m a passionate person, I love this club and when you get results like this – I feel just as bad as the supporters do.

“I told the players that they should hang their heads in shame.”

Brad Inman figured in Crewe’s under 21 side that won 2-1 at Crystal Palace this week.

James Jones gave the Alex the lead after just four minutes thanks to good work from Callum Saunders.

Palace levelled from a set piece on the half hour but George Cooper’s 65th-minute effort made it three wins out of five.

“When a team gets beat like we did, the rest of the lads should be thinking this is their chance to get into the team,” added Davis.

“That’s the reaction and performance I was looking for.”

Crewe entertain Notts County in their rearranged fixture this Tuesday.