Crewe Alexandra manager Steve Holland has decided not to bring Eddie Johnson back to Gresty Road.

The 23-year-old, who left Alex and moved to Manchester United seven years ago, had been training with the rest of Crewe's first-team squad for several weeks.

However, Holland told the club's official website: "I've spoken to Eddie this morning and we've decided to let him go.

"It wasn't an easy decision because Eddie has come here and done well for us. He couldn't have worked any harder than he has done.

"His attitude and application has been excellent and I have a lot of respect for Eddie.

"It wasn't easy for him to do what he did in the first place and he's certainly gone up in my estimation."