Youth team captain says first year professionals have to push on after massive step up

Crewe Alexandra’s Youth team captain Joe Kearns is determined to make an impression this season and push himself towards Steve Davis’s first-team squad. The versatile defender, who has played in both full-back positions and in his more preferred role as centre-half during his development years with the Academy, is one of five youngsters to sign their first professional contracts this summer.

Kearns is obviously delighted to have signed his pro deal and he has been working exceptionally hard in the gym over the summer to become as fit and as strong as possible for the new season.

Joe told Crewe Alex Player: “There was an element of nerves and excitement on the day we were told the news. You just don’t know what to expect so when you are told the good news you are just excited and relieved. That is what you work hard to achieve and it was great for all the family and my friends. They were all made up for me.

“Of course, it is not like that for all the lads and once we all knew I went over the other lads who didn’t get taken on, shook their hands and wished them well. They have come through with you and are your mates, so it is tough.

“This is where the hard work starts now and I am looking forward to the challenge. We have had our little break and most of u have been over most of the summer working on our fitness. I want to be as fit and strong as I can be. All the young lads have been working hard because we want to be involved in the pre-season and catch the managers’ eye.

He added: “My aim is to try and impress in the U-21s and stand out. If I could on the bench a few times for the first team and be in the match day squad then that could be a big step.”