STEVE Davis insists Crewe Alexandra will be fired up as they look to complete the double over rivals Port Vale.

The Alex are back in the relegation zone after their four match unbeaten run came to an end at Notts County with a 2-1 defeat.

With the hosts just one point off the play-offs, Vale start will start as favourites in a potentially key clash for both sides.

However, Crewe have won seven of their last 10 trips to Vale Park and arrive with the bragging rights after last September’s 2-1 win at Gresty Road.

But Davis says it won’t be hard to lift his players as they look to bounce back.

“We can’t dwell on what happened at County,” he explained.

“It’s a great game for the supporters and it’s always a tense affair and action-packed there.

“There’s nothing better than this type of game to get yourself going again.

“Our main focus is to get three points, we’ve had a fantastic run and we’re playing much better than we were.

“That gives you hope that we can get something from all the remaining games.

“That’s how it’s going to be now, there will be little moments in the matches that will decide them.

“Hopefully those things will go for us like that have recently.”

Matt Tootle (ankle) remains on the sidelines while Jon Guthrie (knee) waits on scans after picking up a knock at Country.

Jamie Ness is expected to shake off a dead leg to figure while striker Uche Ikpeazu is expected to agree to an extended loan following the game.

The popular 19-year-old is in his second loan stint at Gresty Road from Watford.

“We have an agreement from his club to stay ,that will be signed after the Vale game,” continued Davis.

“He’s done well for the club and he’s exciting.

“He’s still learning, he wants to be here and he wants to score goals.

“What more can you ask from a player from another club?”

Crewe could also move for Derby keeper Ross Etheridge as back up for Ben Garratt.

The 20 year-old has been on trial at Reaseheath while former Vale stopper Joe Anyon also remains on a week-to-week basis.

“We’re still looking at Joe but he’s missed a lot of football and his fitness isn’t where it should be,” added Davis.

“Discussion have taken place about Ross.”

Davis says more players could leave after seeing Lee Molyneux and Thierry Audel move on as he looks to balance the books.

“They weren’t going to play any part in the squad so the best thing to do was to let them go,” he said.

“We have decisions to make before the end of the transfer window.”