WITH the future in mind, Alex boss Dario Gradi has his sights set beyond this season's finale at Sheffield Wednesday, on Sunday.

Optimism is currently at it's highest since promotion after a fine finish to this programme.

"We'll see the season out and then start planning for the next one," he said. "We've already got a structure done and the only question is whether we can introduce a couple of new players to make the side stronger."

Midfield is the key area Gradi will be concentrating on if summer signings are to be made.

This close season could prove to be a busy one for the squad with Gradi planning a tough training schedule to make sure players like Rodney Jack and Mark Rivers have a better chance of staying injury-free.

"There'll be no rest. We're planning the summer programme now and it's the only way young players can try and develop physically."

Colin Cramb's future remains in the air after mixed media reports suggest he hopes to stay at Bury.

"It's in his hands," explained Gradi. "If he wants to stay, he can. We only want enough money to pay him off and he'll have to do his own negotiating."

Back to the present, Crewe still have a job to do at Hillsborough on Sunday with over a thousand supporters likely to make the trip in carnival mood.

Both Steve Macauley and Dave Walton are unlikely to figure and although Steve Foster reported ill earlier this week, he should check out in time.

"We'll tinker with the side a little but there won't be any big changes," added Gradi.

Alan Navarro is likely to make his final appearance against Wednesday as his loan spell from Liverpool comes to an end.

"He's done alright. It's been good experience for him and I think it's been worthwhile. I like it to be beneficial to both parties because if it isn't, the next time we would like to borrow someone from Liverpool, why would they bother coming?

Jason Kearton may make his first start of the season after replacing 'George' Bankole with eight minutes to go against Preston.

* With work to the pitch estimated at £300,000, Crewe will hold no friendlies at the Alexandra Stadium, this year.

Highlight of the trips scheduled is without doubt Port Vale, one week before the big kick-off. The Alex's pre-season programme is as follows:

Monday, July 16: Rushden and Diamonds (at Newcastle Town); Friday, July 20: Two matches at Newcastle Town and Kidsgrove; July 23-27: Possible Ireland tour; Monday, July 30: Telford; Tuesday, July 31: Hyde United; Saturday, August 4: Port Vale.