Crewe Hope To Capture Rams Keeper

Crewe Alexandra are said to be one of three teams chasing recently released goalkeeper Ben Hinchliffe. Hinchliffe was released by Derby County following their relegation back to the Championship and is said to also be attracting interest from Darlington and Stockport.

The Preston born 19 year old was signed by Derby County after leaving Preston North End in the summer of 2007. Despite signing a two year deal, new Rams boss Paul Jewell cut the contract short.

He never made an appearance for either Derby or Preston but did spend two games on loan at League One rivals Tranmere Rovers in the 06/07 season, coincidentally facing the Alex on his debut when he came on as a substitute, replacing red carded Gavin Ward.

Hinchcliffe could be one of two keepers the club are hoping to capture after the club recently revealed they will be talking to an ‘older, experienced goalkeeper’ later this week, who is thought to be Yeovil Town’s Steve Mildenhall. Hinchcliffe would no doubt be signed to fill the ‘number two’ spot.

It comes after a month of goalkeeping hell at Reaseheath training ground. Last season’s number one, Ben Williams, rejected a new deal and left the club on the same day that Steve Holland was informed that Gretna keeper Greg Fleming would be snubbing the Alex in favour of Oldham Athletic. Meanwhile, young Owain Fon Williams looks set to turn down a new contract in favour of first team football elsewhere. It leaves just Stuart Tomlinson as the club’s only keeper, but Tommo still faces at least another 6 months out injured.