With the window for emergency transfers set to close tomorrow we spoke to Silkmen boss Keith Alexander for his thoughts on the current squad, Tommy Lee's departure, his view on loan players and the chances of any new faces arriving at the Moss Rose this week.

"I am looking at the possibility of bringing in one player before the deadline on Thursday but nothing is agreed as of yet and there is a lot more talking to be done before any decision is taken," explained Keith.

"I certainly believe we need to strengthen the squad, all managers do. But over the last few weeks my players have shown they want to play for me and most importantly this football club. And that is all you can ask of them. I knew when I arrived that I wasn't going to be showered with money. Circumstances don't dictate that but I have been able to bring in the likes of Scott Spencer and Richard Walker which has clearly helped our cause."

"Traditionally I've never been a big fan of using 'loan' players. I would far sooner have lads here on long term contracts. And I sympathise with the view that we probably have too many 'loanees' in our squad at the moment. But that is not to suggest that the lads in question haven't given anything but 100% during their time here. On the contrary and they will certainly have a big part to play over the coming weeks."

"The football world is changing and how you make the best of the loan system currently in place is one of the key challenges faced by managers at this level. The loss of reserve team football has had a big impact and the ability to bring proven players in on loan is a big help. But fundamentally it still comes down to choosing the right players."

"A few people were probably surprised when I allowed Tommy Lee to go out on loan Rochdale. The rationale was simple really. Firstly he can be recalled at 24 hours notice and secondly I don't believe in picking a keeper to sit on the bench. The only exceptions are cup games when it is a one-off game. Without wishing to tempt fate, in the years I have been a manager I have only ever had one keeper taken off during a game. So I would far sooner have an extra outfield player on the bench, especially at home when more often than not you are looking to make things happen."

"Thirdly Rochdale were due to play Notts County the day after. So anything I could do to help prevent them picking up points I was happy to do. By all accounts Tommy had a good game, even though Dale lost 1-0, and he played again in their 4-1 win on Easter Monday. So he's getting match practice which is great as it wasn't something I could guarantee him at the moment."