CREWE Alexandra manager Steve Davis is not expecting an easy game with Swindon despite the visitors’ recent dip in form.

Town have failed to win in their last three games away from the County Ground but the Gresty Road boss has been impressed by Swindon’s performances from afar.

"We have got two or three reports, they have been doing well during that period, they haven't been playing poorly that's for sure,” said Davis.

"They've still been dominating games and creating chances but things haven't gone for them and they've made mistakes at the other end which can happen. They bounced back with a good result in midweek.

"They will have these little spells in the season. Bristol City have and whether you're up at the top of the league or not you will have those periods where things don't go for you.

“But it's important that you bounce back and that's what they have done.’’ Crewe head into the clash without goalkeeper Ben Garratt, who was taken from the 2-0 defeat to Barnsley at Oakwell last Saturday in an ambulance after fracturing his shin bone. Veteran goalkeeper Paul Rachubka will come in.

"They've got a lot of good players in the team who can manipulate the ball and like possession, they're patient in possession and have some pace,” added Davis.

"They're up there for a reason, they've been consistent apart from the last three games prior to the midweek game, but they've had a good season and Mark (Cooper) will be looking for them to finish in the top three I would have thought and they've got a good chance of doing that."