MATT Tootle’s shock decision to join League One newcomers Shrewsbury Town could rock Crewe to the core.

Once linked with a big money move to the Championship, the 24-year-old former club captain goes on a free after rejecting a new deal with the Alex – splitting opinions across supporters.

Last week first-team coach James Collins highlighted the importance of retaining Tootle.

And after off-the-field problems have dogged Crewe’s start to a season for the past two years, this could be viewed as a disastrous opening to an important summer.

Questions will be asked over this surprise departure.

Why was Tootle’s contract allowed to run down in the first-place and why did not the Alex didn’t match Shrewsbury’s offer if his signature was viewed as important?

Is this also further evidence that the age-old philosophy of selling Academy players on to survive is becoming untenable during an era of ‘player power’.

“Obviously it’s disappointing for us but Matt clearly felt the time is right for a new challenge,” explained Collins.

“He’s put a lot into this club, has been here a long time and has been a very good player for us.

“But the decision was his to make and we have to wish him all the best for the future.

“That means Oliver Turton and James Baillie will fight for the right to start in Matt’s position.

“That’s the way we always look at things as a club and it is an opportunity for someone else.”

Now all eyes are on whether striker Ryan Colclough decides to stay or also jumps ship.

The 20-year-old looks to be waiting on options with his current deal set to expire at the end of the month.

Either way Crewe face an explosive start to the new season with a home derby against fierce rivals Port Vale on August 8.

The Alex travel to Scunthorpe a week later, get an early reunion with Tootle at Shrewsbury on September 19 and head for Blackpool on October 24.

A trip to Rochdale awaits on Boxing Day, Coventry arrive on January 2 and Crewe finish the campaign at Fleetwood on May 8.

Keeper Ben Garratt already has his focus firmly on that Vale clash.

“Everyone wants to be in the starting XI on the opening day and that’s what I’m working towards,” he said.

“Hopefully I’ll get hold of the shirt and keep it.

“I think I finished last season a better keeper than when I started and now I’m looking forward to the next one.

“I’ve not had a reaction to the injury and you don’t want to be playing catch-up so I’m ready to go.”

Meanwhile Alex have been drawn at home to Preston North End in the first round of the Capital One Cup.

The tie will be played week beginning August 10