Chris Atkinson is now in possession of the shirt after two fine displays in midfield

James Collins has praised Chris Atkinson’s attitude and desire to get back into the Crewe Alexandra starting line-up. Atkinson was had to wait patiently for a chance this season after the club brought in three new midfield players during the summer.

The 23-year-old midfielder had a productive pre-season campaign and was rather unfortunate not to have started the campaign in the starting XI but a recent injury to Billy Bingham gave him his chance to stake his claim, firstly as a first half substitute at Wigan and then when starting against Swindon last weekend.

Collins, the club’s first team coach told crewealex.net: “I thought Chris was terrific for us last weekend considering it was his first start of the season. He had a much better pre-season and he is in the best spell with us.

“He had a good pre-season and was a bit unlucky not to start the season in the team but his attitude has been terrific. He has kept his head down and worked hard in training.

He has had to be patient and wait for a chance but he recently got that and I am pleased for him. Now he knows he has to play well to keep hold of the shirt and stay in the team. “