STEVE Phillips looks to be the man to solve Crewe’s long-running keeper crisis.

Arriving on an initial two-month loan deal, the 31-year-old Bristol Rovers stopper brings a wealth of experience to the club.

Having made almost 500 appearances for both Rovers and their arch-rivals City, Phillips has been key to the recent revival at the Memorial Stadium, winning a string of accolades.

Crewe swooped after his short-term spell with Shrewsbury ended while Frenchman Bertrand Bossu has already departed.

"It’s no secret that I wasn’t happy with the keepers,” explained boss Dario Gradi.

“Their attitude has been magnificent but we’ve let lots of goals in.

“We have to try and stop that.

“We thought it was possible with the big French lad but then we had a chance to get Steve and it was too good an opportunity to turn down.

“Bossu was unhappy about leaving his family behind and he changed his mind.

“So signing Steve and Adam (Legzdins) playing so well has changed the face of the situation.

“Steve will start, he’s what we have been looking for – an experienced keeper who will steady the ship.”

Gradi remains convinced his side can get themselves into contention after a poor first third of the season.

“We still have enough time to put ourselves in the promotion picture,” he added.

“But we have to keep playing well and steer clear of injuries.

“There has definitely been an improvement and we need to carry on.

“The defence is still not as good as it needs to be but the players have always been good to work with.

“They are honest players who want to improve.

“Before anyone comes here, I always say if you don’t want to be coached then go somewhere else.”

The boss has a lot of faith in the likes of Shaun Miller, James Bailey and Steve Schumacher.

“With the Maynards and Millers of this world, they have to play,” continued Gradi.

“They have scored all through the youth teams.

“If they haven’t scored in six or seven games then you review it but I think he will score goals.

“I don’t think he (Bailey) understands what a good player he could be.

“He’s not got obvious outstanding qualities but his is that he makes good decisions and if you play that central position, it’s vital.

“He’s a real reliable player.

“What Steve has, you can’t coach.

“They have to want to make those runs because there are a million reasons why you shouldn’t.”

Crewe head to non-League York on Saturday, aiming to avoid any upset in their FA Cup First Round clash.

“We lost 7-1 there in my first year,” said Gradi.

“But I don’t think it has changed much over the years while we have changed a great deal.

“We’ll be the favourites.

“They are having a decent season and we know Martin Foyle.

“It’s the FA Cup and we’d like a good run so we won’t be resting anyone, that is for certain.”

Anthony Elding has rejoined Blue Square Premier outfit Kettering on loan until January.