Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis knows he faces a battle to keep hold of midfielder Luke Murphy.

Murphy is being linked with Stoke City and Aston Villa.

And with up to 30 scouts at most Crewe home game, it could be only a matter of time before the 23 year-old leaves.

Davis said: "We are not looking to lose anyone in January, but the summer might bring something different.

"If we've got to bring someone in to replace a player then we will do that, but I believe in longer-term planning."