Crewe keeper in hospital

Crewe keeper Ben Williams is in hospital, believed to be suffering from meningitis.

Williams took ill over the weekend after complaining of feeling unwell ahead of Crewe's FA Cup tie at Preston North End.

The keeper was due to start the game at Deepdale, but was pulled out of the third round encounter by manager Dario Gradi.

Williams has since been taken to hospital and it is understood that the 23-year-old is suffering from viral meningitis.

The former Manchester United youngster's illness has prompted Crewe boss Gradi to shut the club's training ground.

Gradi has demanded his squad stay away from training until Thursday in an attempt to minimise the possible effects on the rest of the players.