NEW recruit Bertrand Bossu faces a battle to be in contention for Crewe’s key trip to Cheltenham.

The giant 29-year-old stopper needs international clearance before he can make his Alex debut.

With Spurs recalling David Button once again, Dario Gradi faces another keeper crisis ahead of Saturday’s big clash.

Having left Aberdeen this summer, Bossu could be the answer after agreeing to a short-term deal this week.

But while he sweats on the paperwork, Crewe are likely to go with either Adam Legzdins or Steve Collis in a bid to end their dismal run of seven defeats in eight games.

“Spurs have offered David back to us but we are looking elsewhere,” explained Gradi. I don’t want a situation where he can be recalled at a moment’s notice.

“He’s a super lad, has worked hard and has a chance of being a good keeper.

“But I’d rather have our own keeper, a steady Eddie. Bossu has agreed to a two-month trial.

“Now he needs to be cleared before he is available to player and I doubt will manage that by the end of the week.

“We have two keepers here who both trail well.

“Neither have convinced in games but this is an opportunity for them.

“I don’t think we’ll have anyone else in by the weekend but you never know who might call.

“We do have one in particular who we will keep to ourselves.”

Gradi knows their trip to Whaddon Road could be vital in turning things around quickly.

“It’s an important game as we don’t want to keep losing,” he continued.

“At the moment we don’t look a promotion side. But I’m not regarding it has hard work, it’s another opportunity to make a difference here.”

One player unlikely to be in contention is transfer-listed Anthony Elding. Burton have been linked to the striker who has failed to emulate his prolific goal ration at Stockport.

“I’ve suggested he goes on loan or permanently if he wants,” said Gradi.

“Burton have been in touch and Neil (Baker) will see what they want to do and if it is suitable.

“But if no-one takes him, he’ll be judged on merit.”

Leading scorer Calvin Zola could be in line for a welcome return as Gradi weighs up his options.

“Calvin is on schedule to train and if he looks alright, he will play I expect,” continued the boss.

“When I was caretaker the first thing I did was put Zola and Miller up front. It was fine and that is likely to be my starting line-up.”

Crewe will travel to Blue Square Premier outfit York in the first round of the FA Cup.

The tie against Martin Foyle’s side takes place on November 7.