Shelton Martis may make his return to the Doncaster squad.
Martis is back in training after a calf injury. The FA Cup first-round tie against Rovers' non-league neighbours Bradford Park Avenue on Saturday came too soon for the defender but there is a possibility he could be fit for the npower League One clash.
David Cotterill's calf complaint will keep him out against Alex but it is hoped the winger will recover in time to be considered for the Bournemouth game at the weekend.
Midfielder Kyle Bennett (knee) is not expected to be back for around another three weeks.
Meanwhile, manager Dean Saunders is working to keep Iain Hume at the club. The striker's loan from Preston is set to end in January, and Saunders told the Sheffield Star: "We are trying to do a deal now and get him signed up either until the end of the season or on a proper contract. His agent and the two clubs are talking at the moment."
Crewe will once again be without Max Clayton.
Highly-rated young striker Clayton has been sidelined by a troublesome groin complaint in recent weeks and it is thought Colchester's visit to Gresty Road is a more realistic target for the England Under-19 international.
Fellow forward Ajay Leitch-Smith (ankle) remains on the sidelines alongside teenage winger Ryan Colclough (broken jaw).
Abdul Osman returned from a spell on the sidelines due to an ankle injury for Saturday's 4-1 FA Cup win over Wycombe.
The former Northampton midfielder was replaced by Ollie Turton with 18 minutes remaining after picking up a minor knock but is expected to be ready if called upon by boss Steve Davis at the Keepmoat Stadium.
