Alex prepare for FA Cup showdown with former winners of the great competition.

This weekend’s cup opponents, Bolton Wanderers, are a club steeped in proud FA Cup history having won the competition on four occasions.

The Trotters last won the FA Cup in 1958 with their famous captain Nat Lofthouse (pictured) lifting the trophy at Wembley after they had beaten Manchester United in the final.

Crewe will be aiming to win at the University of Bolton Stadium for the second time this season, having previously beaten them 3-2 in the EFL Trophy back in September.

Ahead of first round tie, boss David Artell told crewealex.net: “We want to progress in the competition and I will be picking a team to try and win the game.

“Bolton are previous winners and have a proud history in the competition. They will be looking at us and the opportunity to get into the second round as well. We know it is going to be tough. It is never easy going somewhere like Bolton, that’s for sure.

“They had a bit of a tough start to the season but they have picked up in recent weeks and are beginning to find their feet. They have had a large influx of players and a new manager coming in, so it is sure to take some time.

He added: “In the FA Cup anything can happen and we will have to give it our all to get a result.”