Midfielder knows competiton in the Alex midfield is fierce but ambitious youngster is up for the fight.

Regan Griffiths is delighted to have made his full league debut for the club and the midfielder is now hoping to really put the pressure on those ahead of him in the team to stake his claim for regular inclusion heading into 2022.

Griffiths has had to wait patiently to make his full league debut, coming on as an impact substitute in previous league games and starting cup competitions such as the Papa John’s Trophy.

Crewe face Doncaster this evening and the Liverpool-born Griffiths is hoping for more potential game time to cement himself in David Artell’s plans. Suspensions for Luke Murphy and Scott Robertson opened the door for Griffiths on Sunday and he is determined to build on his assured display at Portman Road.

Regan told the club’s official website: “I had to wait longer than I thought to make my full league debut but now I think it was a good time to play. I think waiting that little bit longer allowed me to work on my game more and become sharper and prepared for first-team football.

“The main difference I found on Sunday was the intensity, you don’t tend to get that at Under-23 level as much. On Sunday they were on you from the first minute until the last and I thought I did okay.

“From a personal perspective it was nice to make my full debut at Portman Road and the performance was good but we were all disappointed with the result because we felt we deserved to get something from the game.

Regan added: “Hopefully, I have done enough to keep my place. I know there are some good midfield players here and the competition is good. We have got Madger, Murph, Robbo, Tom Lowery, Finney and Callum (Ainley) is coming back as well, so it is tough but you have got to back yourself and the gaffer has always said that if you take your chance and remain consistent then you will  keep the shirt.”