Alex Morris wants Crewe Alexandra to maintain their winning mentality when they visit Grimsby Town in the first round of the Carabao Cup tomorrow (Tuesday, 7.45pm).

The manager says he will make changes to his side to add fresh legs, but does not want anyone to think the game is not being taken seriously.

On the contrary, he is targeting a long overdue cup run and says victory at Blundell Park is important to build on the six points The Railwaymen have already banked in the league.

Alex said: “There will be changes, definitely. We already know the team because we discussed it yesterday (Sunday) so we can get prepared.

“We have to make sure players at the top end of the pitch are fresh when they go into games because they have to exert more energy than the back six.

“But regardless of the personnel, we expect to go there and win the game. We have started really positively, there is a good atmosphere around the place and that mentality of winning – something that is so hard to create – is something we want to hold on to.”

The manager says the fact that he was a member of the playing squad the last time Crewe went deep into a competition demonstrates that they haven’t had enough cup runs over the years.

The former midfielder was part of the group that lost an FA Cup fifth round replay to Everton in 2002.

Alex added: “I place a lot of importance on a cup run, this club hasn’t had many over the last 20-25 years and we should have done with some of the teams and players we have had.

“The last FA Cup run of any note was the Everton one I think, and I remember being the spare man in the squad that day, which shows you how long ago it was!

“In the Carabao Cup we played Villa recently, but prior to that I think it was Manchester United (2006) which again was a fair while ago. So, we want to get through, for sure.”

Tickets are on sale for our visit to Grimsby. Click HERE for details.