Steve Davis says the work achieved at Academy level helps his team adapt to new tactics

Steve Davis, the Crewe Alexandra manager says the club’s ability to produce technical players within its renowned Academy allows him to use the versatility of players in different positions. Davis says that players coming through the Crewe Academy are tried out in different positions, so they become comfortable in possession on both sides of the pitch.

Davis is open to tactical and system changes and assessing the oppositions strengths and weaknesses before deciding on his formation and personnel. It certainly worked at Preston North End last weekend when Crewe’s wing-back formation took Graham Westley’s side by surprise.

Steve, who has been keen to promote from the club’s Academy, said: “Systems all depend on the players you have. The players have to have the ability and the know-how to make it work. Sometimes it can work and sometimes it doesn’t. It worked at Preston and we were pleased with that.

“They couldn’t cope and it was like we had an extra man all over the pitch. The Academy has to take great credit for that. When they are coming through the system they are played in various positions and are encouraged to use both feet.

“They can adapt when they are asked to play on the opposite side or in a different position. They are comfortable and their versatilityhelps us. They benefit from being moved around the pitch as young players.”