Torquay manager Martin Ling could make changes to his attack as he looks to end a run of two games without a goal.
The Gulls need to win to maintain their hopes of securing an automatic promotion place, following a 2-0 defeat to AFC Wimbledon last time out, and Ryan Jarvis is pushing for a recall up front.
Striker Taiwo Atieno is struggling with a minor knock but could well recover in time to feature for the Devon outfit, who otherwise have no injury or suspension worries to deal with.
Ling's side will be looking to do the double over their Cheshire guests, having beaten Alex 3-0 at Gresty Road in the corresponding fixture earlier this season.
Meanwhile, Crewe are hoping forward Nick Powell will be fit to play this weekend.
The England Under-18 international missed last weekend's 1-0 win over Cheltenham that saw the Railwaymen move into the npower League Two play-off places due to tonsilitis, and back-up goalkeeper Alan Martin is also suffering with the illness.
"Nick has been ill and we're waiting to see whether he recovers quickly enough," said manager Steve Davis. "If he feels okay we'll take him down to Torquay. Alan Martin has picked up something similar to Nick."
Ashley Westwood suffered a head injury in the closing stages against the Robins but is set to retain his place in midfield, although doubts remain over captain and last week's matchwinner David Artell (hamstring).
Davis added: "Dave came off as a precaution really. He probably couldn't have carried on anyway with his hamstring, which he felt during the course of the goal. We'll assess him to see if he's fit or not, so he's the main concern."
If Alex win and Oxford fail to beat Southend they will secure a play-off berth.
