Adam Dugdale on his mix-season so far...

Adam Dugdale has told Crewe Alex Player that his absence from the club’s starting XI has become increasingly frustrating but the Liverpool-born defender is determined to regain his spot at centre-half as soon as possible. Dugdale has found himself on the side lines since a heavy 5-1 drfeat at Brentford and a bout of illness ahead of our Captial One Cup tie at West Ham.

Boss Steve Davis teamed up summer signing Mark Ellis with Harry Davis in his more natural possession and the partnership has remained relatively solid since. Their consistent performances mean that Dugdale has been reduced to late substitute appearances and constant run-outs for the clubs’ Under-21 side.

In a honest interview, now available on player, Duggy said: “It has been frustrating because I don’t like being a substitute and watching from the side lines every week. That is part of the game though and you are always going to have ups and downs.

“It is very different from last season when I played in almost every game, but that is football. It hasn’t gone well for me personally this season and all I can do is work hard in training, remain patient and wait for an opportunity. When it arrives for whatever reason, I have confidence in my own ability and I aim to grab it with both hand.”

There is a lot more from Duggy, now on Crewe Alex Player, why not think about player as the perfect gift for Christmas. It is just £42.99 for the entire year!