U18's Gaffer calls on the fans to turn out in their droves

Crewe Alexandra Under 18’s manager Alex Morris is going all-out in the FA Youth Cup as his side face last season’s beaten finalists Fulham at Gresty Road tonight in the third round.

His side knocked Preston out in round one on penalties after a 2-2 draw and then made light work of York City in round two, winning 4-0 to set-up the tie with the Cottagers.

Morris has received a boost ahead of game from Steve Davis with the news that first-teamer George Cooper has been made available for selection after an impressive run in the senior side has seen him bag two League One goals.

Both opening rounds were at Gresty Road, with 386 turning out to watch the Preston encounter and  499 in support of the York thumping, but Morris wants more against Fulham and has called on the Crewe public to back the boys and head to the ground to give their support.

Morris said: “We’ve put a lot of work in over the last few days in preparation for this Cup game. I know how we’re going to play, and how they might play, so the boys are as prepared as they can be for a game of this nature.

“The Youth Cup is the highlights of these boys’ scholarship careers and we’ve got Fulham now who have a terrific Youth Cup pedigree. It’s going to be as tough a test for us as it was against Reading last year.

“George Cooper is going to play – it’s a huge bonus for us. George is a first team player now a year ahead of his time, so to have him back in the group gives the boys that little bit more confidence to know he’s there fighting the cause alongside them.

“The Crewe public are brilliant at supporting the youth team, we always get one of the biggest crowds each round. They put a lot of emphasis on supporting the boys, so hopefully we’ll get close to four figures against Fulham.”

Kick-off is tonight (7pm), and it’s pay-on-the-gate with £3 adults and £1 concessions (seniors , juniors, students)