Ben Garratt looking forward to new season after injury lay-off

July at Congleton.^thCrewe Alexandra goalkeeper Ben Garratt has told the club’s official web-site that he has used the closed season to enhance his own fitness level ready for when the pre-season games kick off on 10

The talented young goalkeeper set himself a target of being fit for the decisive run-in after breaking his leg away at Barnsley in February. That commitment paid off with Garratt able to return to the squad for the final couple of games as potential back-up to an in-form Paul Rachubka.

Ben told Crewe Alex Player: “Pre-season has come around reasonably fast but I am really looking forward to it. I think all the boys enjoy the break, but as soon as it comes around again you just can’t wait to get back into it. The rest helps but I am raring to go now.

“I was pleased to finish the season fit and back in the squad. I feel I have pushed on during the closed season and I am fully fit. I am fine and looking forward to the fixtures coming out. You always tend to look at the first game, the last game and Boxing Day more than anything else.

Ben added: “I didn’t start last season in the starting line-up. Scott (Shearer) played the first game, so my aim is to make sure I am in the team for the first game. I want to do well in the pre-season games and make sure I am selected.”