CREWE'S Efe Sodje has been offered a new contract.

With injuries to Steve Macauley and Dave Walton, the 28-year-old Nigerian has again answered the call with solid performances over the last two weeks.

And it's bound to be great news for the Alex faithful who have come to regard the bandana man as one of their firm favourites over the course of the season.

"I haven't discussed terms with Sodje but he has been told he will be offered a new deal in the summer," said Gradi.

"It's been on the table for a while and it's just a case of if he accepts it or not. We will discuss that at the end of the season.

"Sodje's improved this season and I've been pleased with him. He cost a few games at the start of the season but he's eliminated the mistakes.

"If he continues to listen and improve, he will become a good player."

The Alex boss feels plenty of work is still to be done by his side as the run-in comes to a close.

"We still have a bit to do and I'm still sitting here and sweating. I look at teams below us and think the likes of Portsmouth, Crystal Palace and Huddersfield are big clubs.

"We have some hard games coming up so i'm delighted we reached the 50 point target already."

Crewe's remaining games are as follows: Stockport (A), Sat, Apr 21; Wimbledon (A), Tue, Apr 24; Preston (H), Sat, Apr 28; Sheff Wed (A), Sun, May 6.

Check out the Alex's offical website at www.crewealex.net