Crewe Alexandra manager Lee Bell has backed his players to handle the intensity of Saturday's derby at Port Vale, kick-off 12.30pm. Bell, who has a long history with Crewe both as a player and coach, said new squad members will understand the significance of the fixture to supporters.
Crewe will travel to Vale Park aiming to extend their winning start to the League Two season. Port Vale, by contrast, are hunting their first three points of the campaign.
Bell on the Derby Atmosphere
Bell said he expects a packed house and an intense atmosphere. "They'll know what the fixture's about and what to expect going to Vale Park," he said. "I'm sure it'll be a packed house and plenty of noise."
The manager said he welcomes the competitive edge that comes with a derby. "Our players will know what it means — it does mean a little bit more. It is a derby, what anyone says. The more fans, the better. You get a bit of abuse from behind you, which is part and parcel of football, and it's not over the top. I love it. That's what we're all here for."
Bell expects both sides to play aggressively. "I'm sure their manager will be getting his players to get after us and be aggressive. Likewise, he'll be saying the same about our players. It's an exciting game."
Crewe's Early Form
Crewe are currently on six points with clean sheets to their name. However, Bell said the team still has room to improve. "It's nice to be on six points and the clean sheets are pleasing. But we've still got a lot more to offer. We're nowhere near where we want to be in terms of performances."
