Crewe Alex: Wanted duo focussed on Alex cause

By mbaggaley crewe alex michael baggaley

by Michael Baggaley

CREWE manager Gudjon Thordarson is confident in-demand duo John Brayford and Michael O'Connor won't be distracted by speculation about their future.

Right-back Brayford is wanted by Derby, while midfielder O'Connor is understood to be interesting Scunthorpe and Lincoln City.

Both players reported back for pre-season training with the Alex squad on Monday, but Thordarson can't say for certain whether they will still be at the club by the time the season kicks off on August 8.

The manager had a fall out with Northern Ireland international O'Connor last season, but has said the 21-year-old starts with a clean slate this summer.

The manager says he has no doubt about the commitment to the cause of either O'Connor or Brayford, who is also 21.

He said: "I have no questions about that.They are both professionals and both know how important it is to play football in the proper way.

"The only way for professionals to do themselves justice is out on the pitch, where they can show everyone what they are equipped with and capable of doing."

Selling the players would give Thordarson little more room for manoeuvre as he attempts to bring in signings.

The Icelander says he has no money for transfer fees, having only recruited Histon pair Patrick Ada and Mat Mitchel-King on free transfers. Crewe rate Brayford at around £500,000 and could receive up to £250,000 for O'Connor.

Thordarson has alternatives in mind if the players are sold, but says he is planning on the basis of them still being at Crewe at the start of the season. start the campaign.

He said: "I have all kinds of plans. At the moment I am planning for them to be with us, but then we have a second and third plan.

"There's no point spending too much time speculating. It is more important to focus on what you are dealing with at the moment.

"But in management you have to be ready to adapt and cope with changes."