LIVEWIRE striker Ryan Colcough is set to stay with Crewe Alexandra.

The 20-year-old is expected to snub potential interest elsewhere and repay the faith of boss Steve Davis by signing a new deal.

After almost 18 months out through injury and off-the-field issues, Colcough returned to score in wins over Sheffield United and Coventry City during the run-in.

Those results were key in Crewe retaining their League One status as loan forwards Nicky Ajose and Uche Ikpeazu faltered.

Although out-of-contract, the Guardian understands Colclough will put pen to paper on a new two-year stay over the next few days.

“It’s all been positive so far with Ryan and his representatives,” explained Davis.

“I think he’s left negotiations with his agent and I know he will seek the advice of his dad.

“He’s very important to him and I’m sure they will come to the same conclusion that Ryan will only develop and become better with us.

“He’s been working hard to get back physically and he knows I have been there for him when he has gone through some difficult times.

“It will be my job to be his mentor and get the best out of him.

“If we can do that, he will realise the great potential he has.”

Davis believes Colclough could make the difference as Crewe seek that 20-goal striker that can turn them from relegation fodder into play-off contenders.

“It’s important that he gets on the pitch as often as he can next season,” he added.

“We know what a key player he could be for us.

“He’s showed glimpses of that in those last few games and we’re determined to get him going.

“He’s got that ability to produce something out of nothing.

“We want him to stay and help him become the player we know he can be.

“He’s suffered a massive set-back with the time he’s lost through injury but he has the potential to push on.”

Moves to secure both Greg Leigh and skipper Matt Tootle are likely to take longer.

Leigh, a 20-year-old full-back, has been released by Premier League outfit Manchester City and is now weighing up offers.

Meanwhile, Tootle has recently become a father.

“I’ve spoken to Greg’s representatives and they’re waiting for us to come back with something,” added Davis.

“We’re in the process of coming up with figures and we’ll see what we can do.

“Matt and his partner have had their first baby and it’s important he spends time with his family.

“I’ve told him when he’s ready. we’ll sit down and discuss the future.

“He knows everyone wants him to stay and we also know what a fit Matt Tootle can offer us.”