Former Burton Albion defender John Brayford says he is looking forward to his first return to the Pirelli Stadium in the colours of Crewe Alexandra this coming Friday. Brayford, who moved to Crewe in September 2008, has nothing but praise for this former club after spending three seasons with the Brewers.

The Stoke-born right-back told the club's official web-site: "I have been back a few times to watch Burton because I still have a lot of friends there. I have friends there outside of football and it is always nice to go back and see how they are getting on.

"Burton was a great place to play football and a great club to play for. They are a well-run club and I am delighted that they are doing well for themselves this season.

"I loved it there but I have no regrets about joining Crewe. When I joined they were in League One and that gave me an opportunity to play two leagues higher than I was at Burton.

"I am looking forward to playing at Burton for the first time but any friendship I have will be on hold for 90 minutes. I will only enjoy it if we go there and win the game.

"The banter has already started. I have been receiving a few text messages but you can talk all you want before the game. It is what you do on the pitch that counts. I will be competitive for 90 minutes and then probably enjoy a drink with them afterwards."

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