STEVE Davis says Crewe Alexandra must find a way to finance reinforcements after losing two key players.

Midfielder David Fox cracked two vertebrates in his back and is facing a two-month lay-off while forward Brad Inman (foot) is on crutches and waiting on the results of an X-Ray.

Both have started every game this season and the double blow leaves the Alex in a real crisis.

Skipper Harry Davis faces another month out with his knee injury along with keeper Dave Richards.

Billy Bingham (hamstring), Lauri Dalla Valle (back) and Stephen Kinglsey (foot) are all recovering but short of match action.

“We have been desperately with injuries and we’re up to the budget,” explained boss Davis.

“We have to stick to it so I have to raise the money somehow.

“We held meetings to see if we can do something but I have to work within the means of the club.

“Things are tight so it is very difficult to do anything.

“One option is to loan some young players out and those on the fringes who could benefit from league or non league action.

“That could raise some money to be able to bring someone in.

“But we have our own under 18 and under 21 fixtures to fulfil and we’re only going to get a minimal amount of money in anyway.

“We have to try and find a way which could help bring in new faces.

“It would give me greater satisfaction if our own players could step up to the level and show that consistency.”

Crewe look to bounce back from that disastrous 2-0 defeat at Blackpool with a home clash against Sheffield United this Saturday.

Callum Saunders pressed his claims with two goals in a 5-0 win over Witton Albion in the Cheshire Senior Cup on Tuesday night.

“We have to respond to the disappointment,” added Davis.

“Our forwards and wingers have to be more dangerous and create more opportunities.

“That’s the gauntlet I’ve thrown down to them and they’re going to have to step it up.”

Davis will be hoping Crewe avoid an upset when they face Conference side Eastleigh at home in the first round of the FA Cup on November 7.

“It’s a good draw and one we can look forward too,” he said.

“There is always something special about the FA Cup and it is nice to be at home.

“Eastleigh are doing well and have some experienced players so it’s going to be a test for us.

“We want to progress and get a bit of a run going for us and the fans.

“We’ll prepare like we would any game but our focus is on Sheffield United.”