Shelley has scored once in five appearances for Crewe this season

Crewe Alexandra manager Dario Gradi has confirmed that midfielder Danny Shelley will be offered a new deal by the club.

Shelley made his first-team debut in December 2008 and has played 29 times for the Alex, scoring three goals.

Gradi told BBC Radio Stoke: "I've told him I'll talk to him this week about a contract, he's waited long enough.

"He's done well enough so I shall make him an offer and hopefully he'll accept. He's another one of our kids and he's got room for improvement."

Shelley has found opportunities harder to come by this season, starting just one game and making a further four appearances as a substitute.

The midfielder came off the bench in Crewe's last two league fixtures and has been praised by his manager for his positive attitude in training.

"I've been dying to play him," added Gradi. "He's been very confident and you can see what a threat he is from set-plays.

"We're not particularly thinking that he's going to hit the back of the net, but we think we might get a rebound off him."

Fellow academy graduates Ashley Westwood, Matt Tootle and Luke Murphy have all signed extended contracts at the Alexandra Stadium this season.

Crewe moved up to fifth in League Two after a 3-0 win over Wycombe on Saturday, their third consecutive victory without conceding a goal.

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