Callum Ainley says he has to become more consistent to press for a first-team spot.

Midfield youngster Callum Ainley has told Crewe Alex PlayerHD that he is eager to overcome a dip in form and repress his claim for a first-team place. Ainley has been on the fringes of the first team this season and his only goal came in our Checkatrade Trophy win over Accrington Stanley back in August.

The talented younger accepts that his form has not been as good as though players ahead of him in the team and he is determined to do better as we enter the busy festive period.

Callum told Crewe Alex PlayerHD: “I think I’ve had a bit of dip from last season because I was in the first team and doing okay. I cannot complain because the players that are ahead of me have played well. Coops and Kiwomya have been doing better than I am.

“All I can do is work as hard as I can and play well for the U-23s. Hopefully if I can do that and I find that consistency then I will get back in as soon as I can.

“I know that if I come off the bench for the first team then I have got to make an impact with my fresh legs and make a difference. You have to become the stand out player for the U-23s and then the manager gives you a chance.

He added: “I know that as a young player, it will take me time. It just won’t happen overnight and I will get better by gaining more experience. “