Ben Garratt is pleased that Dave Richards has extended his stay at Crewe Alexandra to apply competition for the number one spot. The two goalkeepers have built a healthy rivalry and rapport over the last couple of seasons and Garratt appreciates that Richards’ professionalism keeps him on his toes.

Richards is yet to make his first team debut for the club due to Garratt’s consistent form but he has agreed a new one year deal to press his claim this coming season.  

Garratt told the club’s official web-site: “Trig (Richards) is a great professional and works hard every day with Fred (Barber) and the other goalkeepers.

“He is good around the place and is a popular member of the dressing room. He helps the younger ones here and although we are rivals for a place we work well together and it will be the same again next season.

He added: “Trig provides competition because he is a good keeper and I know I have to play well or he will take my place. That is the way it should be amongst the squad and you have to be ready.”