Steve Davis asks fans to play cruical role in derby fixture

Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis says he has used the extra time with his squad to rebuild some lost confidence. Due to International call-ups for George Ray, Marcus Haber, Liam Nolan, the club’s home game against Notts County had to be postponed last weekend.

Steve Davis used the time to conduct a practice match behind closed doors amongst his squad and he has tried to establish the correct balance between work and rest.

Ahead of this weekend’s clash with Port Vale, Steve told the club’s official web-site: “We have used the time to work with the players that have been here and given them some time to recover both mentally and physically.

“We have tried to help them and we have spoken to them on a one-on-one basis and as a group to encourage them. We know what they are capable of because we see it every day in training. It is just about them transferring that into the matches.

“We have gone over things and there has been some constructive criticism. We have been positive because they have come in for some criticism. I cannot stop the criticism coming down from the stands on matchday. I cannot control that but all I would say to our fans is that they were terrific against Port Vale last season and we need that again.

“The players have lost some confidence because they have not been getting the reward for their performances and the criticism from a minority of our own fans doesn’t help them. The fans must realise what a difference it makes to have thousands of fans behind you and supporting you.

He added: “We are in this together and only together will we come through it. Is it not them and us. The team is everybody and I’m sure they will come out in their numbers on Saturday and sing their hearts out for us.”