Boss says two groups are battling out it for places as Crewe start their pre-season with two wins

Steve Davis has already thrown the gauntlet down to his squad members after picking his strongest side in the first half of our two friendly games. Crewe have impressed in pre-season so far scoring four goals in both games and looking sharp in a new 4-3-3 system.

Davis has rotated his two goalkeepers with new signing Scott Shearer starting the first half at Norton and Ben Garratt likewise at Nantwich. Thierry Audel, who has returned from a successful loan spell at Lincoln last season, also started at the Weaver Stadium after George Ray was ruled out with a tight groin strain.

The Crewe boss says the challenge is there for the ‘second group’ to try and make an impression and he has been pleased with some of the performances from his first-year scholars.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “We have picked two teams for each half so far and that may continue this week at Leek and Chester.

“The first group has played well and we have scored three goals in each of the first-halves. The second group have not been as dangerous but they are younger and are finding their way still.

“The challenge is there for all of them. The first group know they have to keep playing well to stay there and the second group understand that they have to improve and push themselves. They know where they have to get to. We are looking to bring two or three in, so that is only going to increase the competition and those with the shirt will have to play well to remain in the team.

“It is working well and we will keep pushing the group to make sure that competition is healthy. We have a few coming back, the likes of Tootle will make a difference to us but young James Baillie has done fine at right-back.

“Vadaine is coming back as well so that gives us enough option up there.”