CREWE FC boss Ian O'Reilly wants his squad fitter and stronger next season - and the hard work starts on Saturday.
O'Reilly reckons he has been too soft on his men in recent years, and wants his team firing on all cylinders to avoid another disappointing Division Two campaign.
At 2pm on Saturday the Crewe FC boys will be put to the test at the Joey the Swan Fields, Wistaston. O'Reilly said: 'There will be no footballs in sight!
'I want to get their lungs going nice and early. When we have been successful in the past we've done this type of thing.
'But we've started too late in the past couple of years and not put in the dirty work. I want at least six sessions without a football.
'I don't want to run them for no reason. They need it. It will be interesting to see who turns up as this will be a big test of who is really keen.'
Meanwhile, O'Reilly will continue to pursue former Crewe Alex trainee Craig Malbon, despite being told the midfiedler intends to sign for Biddulph Victoria.
He added: 'I really think he could be the missing link for us and hope he'll change his mind. He would fit in well and play an important role for us.'
Crewe have lined up two friendlies so far. They entertain Trafford at the Legends Sports Club on July 28 (3pm), and visit Abbey Hulton on August 4 (2pm).
Chairman Pat Slack has revealed big plans for the club's youth development policy. He said: 'We will put in place a general manager who will oversee the development of all the players throughout the club.
'We want to increase the number of teams from U8-U16, and we want to put together an elite U18 team who will play quality teams in friendly games.'
Anyone interested in joining Crewe FC at any level should contact Pat Slack on 07890 687707.
Crewe FC will hold their AGM at the Ludford Centre on Thursday, June 28 (6.30pm).
