Smith and Macauley will play in both testimonials

Dario Gradi has agreed to include both Shaun Smith and Steve Macauley in the forthcoming testimonials against Merseyside clubs Liverpool and Everton in the next five days.

"Shaun has rung me to see what part of the games they would be playing. The most important thing is they are testimonial games so the two boys will play half a game each, but we will still treat them as a pre-season game for us," explained Gradi.

Dario, who is currently in Portugal with an eighteen strong squad preparing for next season added: "They are part of a good programme of games we have arranged. Then the real test will come for us with the Port Vale and Tranmere games when we should look sharp and strong as we approach the start of the season."

It is unclear as to the intended Crewe Alex line up, but the manager has hinted that American hat-trick hero Chris Karagionus will play a part.

"I might chuck him on against Liverpool for a bit, which should be a bit of a thrill for him."