George Abbey has told the club's official web-site that he has agreed to sign for Crewe Alexandra solely not to make up the numbers in a tight knit squad. The former Port Vale and Macclesfield Town defender is eager to force his way into the starting line-up here at the Alexandra Stadium and has stressed that he focussed on helping the club achieve promotion back to the Championship.

Abbey has signed a one-year deal after agreeing personal terms with the club and the Nigerian International will now be hoping to be involved against Derby County tomorrow evening at Gresty Road.

George told crewealex.net: "Once I received a phone call from Neil (Baker) I knew that was Crewe was the place for me because they are a good footballing side and the location suits me and my family. I have a young daughter and I didn't want to uproot them.

"I want to come to Crewe and do my best. I haven't got anything to prove to everyone and I just want to play my part and have a good season for Crewe.

"The ambition here is promotion. I wouldn't have come here otherwise and you can see that everything and everyone is gearing towards a successful season. Crewe have been in the Championship before and you can see that is very professional and the facilities are very impressive.

"The set-up is very good and I'm looking forward to this next challenge in my career."

George Abbey will wear the number 28 shirt for Crewe Alexandra this season.