STEVE Davis insists Crewe Alexandra are still trying to sign a striker to aid their relegation battle.

Having lost last season’s top scorer Mathias Pogba and Max Clayton, it is no real surprise that the rock-bottom Railwaymen need more options up front.

“We’ve tried since pre-season to get the right one in,” said the Alex boss.

“There have been various reasons why we haven’t been able to do that but we’ll keep trying until we do.

“If we can make that one addition, it’s going to make a big difference and he could be a really important player for us.”

Davis admits he was disappointed Marcus Haber decided to swap Crewe for Cancun ahead of this Saturday’s home clash with Coventry.

The 25-year-old forward opted for international duty with Canada as they face a friendly against Colombia.

Adding further fuel to the age-old club versus country debate, Sky Blues pair Reda Johnson and Simeon Jackson felt the game at Gresty Road was more important.

“It’s an interesting one with Marcus,” added Davis.

“I was made aware of the two Coventry lads saying their club football was more important than an international friendly at the moment.

“I had the conversation with Marcus and I asked if it was important to be away from the club for a long period of time, especially if he doesn’t play.

‘I asked and he wanted to go. It’s his country but from a club point of view, we could do with him here at a crucial time for us.

“I commend the two Coventry lads for deciding to stay and I wish Marcus had followed suit.”

Young starlet George Cooper made his debut in last weekend’s 2-0 defeat at Bradford City but Davis has urged caution.

“George deserved his opportunity because he’s been consistent for the under 21’s and in training,” he continued.

“He’s ready technically and temperament wise but we just worry about him physically. He’s still young and we have to be careful.

“What we need to realise is he’s making a big step up at a young age.

“We can’t expect too much from him too soon and he’s not going to be some sort of saviour.

“He’s got a terrific left foot, he’s a quick thinker on the ball and I thought he had a good debut for us.”

Out-of-favour Brad Inman might make the bench as Davis looks to halt a run of four successive defeats.

“Brad has got to play his way into the team, it’s as simple as that,” he said.

“But he is still in my plans, he needs to have a good week and we’ll see on Saturday.”