CREWE will make further moves into the transfer market as they look to bring in defensive cover ahead of a tough double-header against Millwall and Walsall.

Boss Dario Gradi plans to sign a defender on loan in time for Saturday's trip to the New Den with their options seriously depleted through injuries.

David Vaughan was ruled out of the 1-0 victory over Ipswich with a hamstring injury and is struggling to face Mark McGhee's in-form side with Richard Walker even further behind.

"It's touch and go for Vaughan and Richard is not quite ready to make it," revealed Gradi.

"We've got three games in seven days and two in severe circumstances so we'll try and bring someone in before the weekend.

"We had no defenders on the bench last weekend.

"Chris can play at left-back. He wilted a bit against Ipswich but stayed with it and got himself going.

"I'm happy with the way Ben Rix is playing so Vaughan's best place is at left-back but we need some cover."

Another bid for Stockport left-back Anthony Tonkin has been rejected, leaving the 23-year-old in limbo as he remains on the list and out of Carlton Palmer's first-team plans.

Whatever happens within the next 48 hours, Crewe are likely to be unchanged in London providing Dean Ashton didn't pick up a knock with England Under 21's on Tuesday night.

David Platt included the 20-year-old to face Croatia after watching him at the Alexandra Stadium, last Saturday.

His selection alongside the likes of Defoe and Jeffers provoked mixed feelings for Gradi.

"I don't like Internationals, they're a nuisance I'm afraid," he said.

"There's no point getting upset about it. There's nothing I can do about it and I can't stop Dean.

"Of course it's a pleasure to see them play as well.

"We were thrilled to see Billy Jones and Gary Roberts on TV a few weeks ago but Billy hasn't played for us yet because he's injured and that's what happens when they play so many games."

Being drawn at Leicester in the Carling Cup Second Round wasn't exactly inspiring for him either.

"I think there were better ones," he added.

"If there's a decent crowd, it will be worthwhile.

"It's a difficult game and the best side to it would be a good pay day.

"We'll prepare for it when the time comes but really I'm only think about Millwall at the moment."

And the Division One 100%-ers should be some provide a stern test for the Alex on Saturday after a flying start with a wins over Wigan (2-0) and more impressively Sunderland (1-0).

Walsall on Bank Holiday Monday (KO 7.45pm) also arrive in higher-regard than in previous seasons, largely down to the Paul Merson-led revival.