CREWE Alexandra will look to quickly replace Uche Ikpeazu after the forward’s shock departure this week.

The 19-year-old was recalled by Watford just 24 hours after he had extended his loan spell with the Alex on Monday until the end of the season.

Supporters and staff were left stunned, with the striker joining League One rivals Doncaster on Wednesday after expressing his desire to stay put at Gresty Road.

“It’s not easy and I do think we need a big forward up there,” explained boss Steve Davis.

“The lads that we have got now have an opportunity.

“We’ve got Marcus (Haber), Lauri (Dalla Valle), George Cooper and Brad Inman is back so as one door closes, another opens.

“But another option is to continue the search for a replacement and that will be down to the recruitment team.

“It was a surprise to see him go but they were well within their rights.

“It’s disappointing because we had planned and agreed for Uche to be here.

“He didn’t know anything about it in fairness.

“I don’t know whether it has come from the club or his agent but we move on.”

Haber is likely to get the nod at home to title-chasing MK Dons this Saturday, with Dalla Valle back on the bench after recovering from a hamstring strain.

In a busy week for the Alex, Harry Davis signed a new two-year deal while Adam Dugdale has left by mutual consent to join League Two Tranmere Rovers.

“He’s been offered an 18-month contract and we weren’t in a position to offer him that,” added Davis.

“He’s got his family and future to think about and with the squad we’ve got at the minute, we thought we could do it.

“He’s been a fantastic servant and he’ll be missed around the place because of what he has given to the club.”

Current number one Ben Garratt has been linked with moves to Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa after another fine display in the 1-0 win at Port Vale.

“If he can dominate in the box like he has started to, he’s going to be a top keeper and I’m really pleased for him,” continued Davis.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if clubs were looking at him.

“He’s 20 years old, made over 50 starts and is improving by the week.

“There aren’t many young keepers playing first-team football in any league. He’s 6ft 3ins and still growing.

“He’ll take it all in his stride, he’ll get on with the job and try and keep as many clean sheets as he can.”

Goalkeeper Ross Etheridge, 20, has arrived as back up on loan from Derby County as Joe Anyon heads for Scunthorpe.