Lewis Leigh is ready for the ‘biggest challenge’ of his career.

The 20-year-old midfielder, who has joined Crewe Alexandra on loan from Preston until the end of the season, is relishing the chance to join a promotion push.

Leigh said: “It’s the biggest challenge of my career so far, so hopefully I can smash it.

“I just want to have a good training week and get to know the lads and staff, and hopefully I’ll be in the squad on Saturday.

“It was my first men’s loan and I feel like I succeeded at Bromley, so it’s time to step up to League Two. Crewe are in fifth place so we need to push on and get as high as we can.”

Leigh, who was a youth at Liverpool, joined Preston at 14 and has made four appearances under Manager Ryan Lowe, who had three spells as a player with Crewe.

He spent the first half of 2023-24 with National League side Bromley, but has now switched to Mornflake Stadium.

Leigh added: “This is a big club and the Manager (Lowe) has given me good advice so I’ll try to kick on and do well at Crewe.

“I already know a few of the lads – I was with Joel Tabiner, Harvey Davies and Lewis Billington when I was at Liverpool - and I’ll get to know the other lads through the week. 

“Fans can expect tackles and assists, and desire to win every game I play in.”