CREWE'S preparations for life back in Division One have been rocked by the likely departure of transfer-listed striker Rob Hulse.

The 23-year-old has rejected the club's offer of a new contract, leaving them little choice but to circulate his details to potential buyers in the Premiership and First Division.

Last season's top scorer, Hulse's 27 goals were pivotal in securing automatic promotion and earned him a place in the PFA Division Two side along with the supporters' Player of the Year award.

More importantly, his role in their forthcoming campaign was seen as crucial as Crewe look to consolidate in Division One.

Born in the town and a lifelong Alex supporter, Hulse has rejected what was believed to be a two-year extension with improved terms to his existing deal that expires next summer.

Realistically, Crewe cannot risk losing one of their main assets for nothing in 2004, thus leaving them little choice but to listen to respectable offers now.

With the Premiership transfer window open until the end of August, the rumour mill has produced Wolves as a potential destination.

Boss Dario Gradi made a simple statement:

"Rob Hulse has declined the offer of a new contract and is therefore available for transfer," he said.

"All enquiries to assistant manager Neil Baker or myself."

With Rodney Jack already gone, Hulse's departure would be a massive blow to the side, leaving them well short of firepower with only Dean Ashton and Steve Jones as established forwards.

Before Hulse's bombshell, Stephen Foster had pledged his immediate future to the club after agreeing a new three-year contract.

The 22-year-old has emerged as Crewe's most consistent centre-half over the past couple of seasons and was a key member of the side that won promotion back to Division One.

Mr Dependable, injuries forced Foz to play in all four defensive roles throughout the successful campaign.

Boss Dario Gradi had indicated he was keen to secure the future of all his top players, Foster's signature is without doubt a massive boost.

With only one year left on his current deal, Foster could have sat out his remaining 12 months and looked for a move elsewhere but he was happy to commit to Crewe and sign a new deal.

"It's good to get a bit of stability because I didn't want to go into the final year of my contract not knowing what my future would be," said Foz.

"It's a worrying time for professional footballers which is why it's even more pleasing to tie my career up for three more years.

"When you look around at the number and quality of players being released it really is unbelievable."

Knowing the club would never stand in his way if the right move came along, Foster feels Crewe is the best place to be at the moment.

"I'm not aware of any interest anywhere else and I am perfectly happy here so there is no reason for me to look elsewhere," he continued.

"I'm happy at Crewe because this club is the one that has given me my opportunity to play football, and I can't ask for more than to be playing in the First Division at the moment.

"Crewe's aim is to develop players and that's another reason why I'm staying.

"I still feel I can develop as a player and Crewe will give me a chance to do that."

Steve Jones, who has also committed himself to the club by penning a new deal, is still on the crest of wave.

It's been some year for the former Leigh RMI forward with International football following a fine season of 11 goals and promotion.

Jonah is close to a start in Sammy McIlroy's Northern Ireland side after an impressive substitute performance against Italy, last week.

Last night may have been another dream come true with the 26-year-old tipped to be in the first 11 to face Spain in a Euro 2004 qualifier at Winsor Park.

Clayton Ince has also been enjoying his return to International duty and was due to make his third appearance in Trinidad and Tobago's tour of Africa, this week.

The Alex keeper has already faced the Kenyan National team and Olympic team.