Dario Gradi has told Crewe Alex World that he is preparing his side for a tough game when Carlisle United visit Gresty Road on Saturday.

The Alex will face the newly promoted Cumbrian side looking to end a run of tow back-to-back defeats, but DG is not expecting an easy game as manager Neil MacDonald brings his side to South Cheshire.

Carlisle currently sit in fourth position in League One, just a couple of points shy of table topping Nottingham Forest, and although they haven't yet won on their travels this season, Dario will not underestimate their threat.

"We have had them watched and the reports coming back are very good," Dario confirmed

"They play football, but then I think most of the teams in this league do, certainly from what we have seen so far. It's not been a particularly physical league because all the teams try to play. Maybe the quality isn't quite as good as the Championship, but certainly the teams are playing."

After dropping out of the Football League in 2004, United have fought their way back up from the Conference, and DG is impressed by the work done at Brunton Park.

"Paul Simpson was there and did very well for them and I think Neil (MacDonald) is carrying that on now.

"We know Neil from his time at Bolton, because he was always around when we played reserve games there, and he is someone we hold in very high regard."