Donaldson prefers role as striker

Donaldson joined Crewe from Scottish side Hibernian in August 2008

Crewe's Clayton Donaldson says he is better suited to playing a striker after making his return from a broken leg in the defeat by Notts County.

Donaldson spent much of last season playing on the wing but played up front in the 2-0 defeat at Meadow Lane.

"It's ideal for me playing down the middle and being a threat with my pace," he told BBC Radio Stoke.

"The manager [Dario Gradi] sees me as a striker. Once I'm back fully fit I'll be scoring goals for the team."

Donaldson, 25, joined Crewe from Hibernian in August 2008, but managed just six goals in his first season at the Alexandra Stadium as the Alex were relegated from League One.

The defeat by County was the former York man's first taste of action since August 29, but despite not having any match practice, Donaldson felt he was ready to return.

"It was exactly eight weeks since I suffered the injury," added Donaldson. "To play 65 minutes is a massive plus for me.

"It was a bit of a surprise after having only trained for two weeks, but when I was asked if I could play, I said I could.

"The result has put a dampener on it, but I'm sure things will get better."

The loss at Meadow Lane was Crewe's seventh defeat in eight league matches and leaves them 18th in League Two.