Steven Schumacher is hoping to put a disappointing first season behind him and hold down a regular place in Steve Holland's midfield. Once again that area of the field looks the most hotly contested but Schumacher who joined us last summer from Bradford City for a nominal fee is determined to be one of the first names on the team sheet.

The former Everton youngster certainly didn't have too much luck when it came to injuries. A training ground accident saw Mark Carrington land directly on his ankle as they contested an aerial ball and then he suffered a thigh strain that abruptly ended his involvement until the last few months of the campaign.

Schumacher ended the season strongly, marking his best performance in a Crewe shirt in a 3-0 win away at Yeovil Town.

Schumacher told us: "My main aim for this season is to try and stay away from injury. I was so disappointed to pick up two main injuries when I did. If I can stay clear of injuries this time around, then I'm sure I will have a better season and the fans will see a lot more of what I can offer.

"If I can stay fit and play regularly, then I'm sure I will begin to chip in with a few more goals. After what happened to me last season, my only real objective at the moment is to get a place in the side and to play more games than I did last season.

"That is the main thing for me at the moment. I have worked hard over the summer on my fitness. I have been into training and been working on my own back at home, so I feel good.

"The training has stepped up a gear in Bulgaria and everyone is building up their fitness ahead of the opening game of the season. I am preparing for that and I want to be in the starting eleven, because I know there are a lot of players looking for a regular spot in the team, especially in midfield."