Holland looks at midfield options

Crewe start the new season at home to Brighton

Crewe first-team coach Steve Holland says he is considering all options as he looks to strengthen his midfield.

Gary Roberts' discipline problems and an injury to on-loan Jake Livermore have left Holland with a staffing problem in the middle of the park.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "I've had a few names thrown at me, including a player from Arsenal.

"I won't rush. We worked very hard to get the right player in Jake Livermore and will do the same again."

Livermore will be out for three months after fracturing his fibia in the friendly with Wrexham, and Holland says although that is a disappointment it may present James Bailey with the opportunity to impress.

"I'm sure Jake would have solved our problem in midfield, so that was a blow.

"James Bailey will now get his chance and will play a bigger part in the squad than he did last year."