Crewe Alexandra’s number one goalkeeper has been around long enough now to realise that the purpose of pre-season is to make sure we are ready to tackle the nine months of a gruelling EFL season. Results are secondary to match fitness and remaining injury-free.
Garratt has been in the club’s training complex for much of the season and the former England youth goalkeeper is hoping for another consistent season. The Shrewsbury-born stopper was an ever-present last season, making 53 appearances in all competitions.
Now he is set to make his 150th league appearance against Mansfield Town on the opening day of the new season.
Garratt made two stunning saves at Moss Rose last night, but was caught out by a long ball for Macclesfield’s second goal. Garratt is aiming to keep more clean-sheets this term and help the club enjoy a successful season.
Ben told crewealex.net: “I'm feeling good, we are all being put through our paces and it's hard work, but that's the way it should be and we're enjoying it.
“The training has been very high intensity and hopefully we'll get the benefits from that once the season starts.
“Fred (Barber) is always coming up with new sessions and ideas, it's important to keep things fresh and interesting.
Everything is gearing up to that first game and the pre-season games are there to make sure everyone is 100% ready.
“I have to fight for my place the same as anyone else has, but it's important to get those bonds and relationships and I feel I already have done with the new lads so I think we will be a tight group.
“I want to get in the team, stay in the team, be consistent and help the team as much as I can.
Ben added: “We are all aiming for promotion. There's no point in aiming for less. We think we are capable of it and that's what we want to achieve.”