Last summer’s major signing Brad Walker admits that is first season away from his north east roots was difficult to handle at times, but he is determined to come back fitter and stronger this coming season.

Walker joined Crewe from relegated Hartlepool United last summer and he demonstrated his potential in the first half of the season, playing in the centre of defence or in midfield.

The 21-year-old though admits that his lack of a full pre-season caught up with him eventually and he subsequently lost his place in David Artell’s side. The likeable Walker though still managed to play 34 times last season, scoring two goals in his debut season at Gresty Road.

An honest and open Walker told iFollow The Alex: “I am not going to lie, at times last season it was difficult for me. I was leaving home for the first time and my partner was expecting a baby, but it was a great learning curve. I needed that experience and now everything is settled I can really focus on my football again.

“I missed the majority of the pre-season because I was sorting out the move to Crewe and that affected me towards the end of the season. I felt I did okay really until the Notts County game away when I began to feel it. I think missing the pre-season caught up with me then and the manager was good with me, he pulled aside and explained why I was coming out of the team. I understood his decision.

“I was tiring and needed that break at that time.

“I am going to work as hard as I can this summer to make sure that I give myself the best chance of getting back into the starting XI. That is the target and I’ve been in ticking over and I know I will be fitter and in a better shape physically.

“I will be set and ready to go. It is up to me to give it my best shot and that is what I intend to do. I know there is more to come from me and that the fans have not seen the best of m yet.”

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