Alan Martin: Crewe Alexandra goalkeeper moves on

Crewe Alexandra keeper Alan Martin has parted company with the struggling League One club by mutual consent.

The former Scotland Under-21 international has found it difficult to hold down a regular place in Steve Davis's side this season.

Martin, 25, who was signed from Ayr United in 2011, made a total of 41 appearances for the club.

He began the season in the first team but has only made the bench since the emergence of teenager Ben Garratt.

Martin's departure leaves only veteran keeper Steve Phillips, who is also the Alex's goalkeeping coach, as cover on the bench - and he is still nursing the shoulder injury that has kept him sidelined for three months.

There was speculation last week that Fulham's Neil Etheridge, who Crewe took on loan in November until he suffered a thigh injury, might return to Gresty Road.

Meanwhile, Crewe have taken young winger John Johnston on trial from non-league neighbours Leek Town.

It has been reported that the Alex have pipped a number of league clubs to set up a deal that would involve the player being loaned back to Leek the rest of the season, but the club say there is "nothing imminent".