Alex put £1m tag on Zola (From Crewe Guardian)

10:27am Friday 11th December 2009

CREWE have slapped a £1m price tag on leading scorer Calvin Zola.

With Dario Gradi eyeing a surge into the play-offs, the boss is keen to fend off any unwanted interest in his 13-goal striker.

Despite failing to net his last five games, it’s hard to dispute Zola’s overall impact on the team.

And any hopes of a 2010 trip to Wembley may hinge on the exit door remaining all but shut next month.

Peterborough Director of Football Barry Fry has gone on the record to register his interest in the 24-year-old targetman.

Gradi isn’t surprised.

“Everyone is looking for a big striker,” he explained.

“Calvin hasn’t got a good record of scoring but he’s doing well this season.

“So if people want that type of player, and most people do, he is a decent bet.

“I have spoken to Barry. I think they want to buy players but have got no money so that makes it a bit difficult.”

Although Billy Jones is set to leave as Crewe look to cash in on the want-away defender, Gradi hopes no others follow.

“I am happy with the players I have got here,” he added.

“I do think we could push for a play-off place.

“We won’t benefit by selling anyone and we don’t particularly need to.

“But as usual, we wouldn’t stand in anyone’s way if good opportunities came up.”

Focused on retaining, Crewe have handed Ashley Westwood an improved deal.

The 19-year-old, who has played both in midfield and defence this season, has agreed a contract extension until 2012.

“Since I have been here he has done very well,” continued Gradi.

“I saw what he was earning and thought he deserved more.“ It was dealt with the right way, his dad was excited and so was he.

“There wasn’t an agent in sight and he signed the contract we offered him.

“He’s developed physically and has done well at full-back and in midfield.

“I never look at the next star; you don’t know what other people see.”

Westwood was delighted.

“It took me by surprise as I still had two years left but Crewe always look after you,” he explained.

“I never go knocking on his door complaining, I just keep my head down and get on with it.

“I feel more confident and I think that has showed in my performances.

“Christmas is a big part of the season and if we do well, we will be flying.

“I still think we can get promotion.”

Crewe can put themselves within striking distance of the top seven if they can end Barnet’s unbeaten home record on Saturday.

“I don’t think their ground will have changed much but we have,” added Gradi.

“They will be decent, they’ve got a winger who we tried to buy and he will be a threat.

“If we keep picking up four points every two games - that will do.

“We must remember we could have lost the last two games, we’re not fool proof but we will get better.”

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