Crewe Alexandra Kick Off Pre-Season with Witton Albion Test

July 11, 2026 — Crewe Alexandra began their preparations for the 2026/27 League Two season with a pre-season friendly against Witton Albion at Wincham Park this afternoon. Manager Lee Bell took a youthful and experimental squad to Cheshire rivals as the Railwaymen look to build fitness and cohesion ahead of the new campaign.

The fixture marked the first of several pre-season outings for Crewe, who finished the 2025/26 season in a respectable mid-table position. With the club celebrating its 150th anniversary this season, there is renewed optimism around Mornflake Stadium following some key squad developments during the summer.

One of the major stories heading into pre-season has been the return of popular centre-back Luke Offord. The 26-year-old, who came through Crewe's renowned academy and previously captained the side, rejoined the club on a permanent deal from Milton Keynes Dons earlier this month. Bell described the signing as one he initially thought "would be beyond" the club.

"He's a quality player. He wanted to come back, he feels we can get the best out of him," Bell said recently. Offord's experience and leadership are expected to strengthen a defence that saw the departure of James Connolly, who left after turning down a new contract and subsequently joined Walsall.

Striker Jordan Gibson also arrived on a three-year deal from Doncaster Rovers, adding attacking options following the loss of influential loanees from last season. Meanwhile, midfielder Conor Thomas committed to another year with the club, providing valuable experience in the engine room.

Pre-season comes at an important time for several players returning from injury. Joel Tabiner, who missed much of last season through injury, spoke enthusiastically about his ambitions. "I want to have a really good season and show how good I am," the academy graduate said. His fitness and integration will be closely monitored over the coming weeks.

Today's match against Witton Albion, a step up from non-league opposition, gives Bell the chance to assess trialists and younger players alongside first-team regulars. Crewe's pre-season schedule also includes upcoming fixtures against Prescot Cables, Stoke City, and others as they gear up for their League Two opener.

Off the pitch, the club has been engaging with fans through new kit designs for the landmark 150th season and welcoming the latest intake of scholars. The Class of 2026 scholars were formally introduced this week, continuing Crewe's proud tradition of developing homegrown talent.

Looking ahead to the 2026/27 campaign, Crewe face a competitive League Two division. Their opening league fixture sees them travel to Crawley Town in mid-August, followed by a home clash with Northampton Town. Bell will be hoping his mix of returning academy products, new signings, and established players can push for a playoff challenge.

Supporters will be eager to see how the side performs in the coming friendlies. Early signs suggest a positive atmosphere around the club, with Bell emphasising the importance of building momentum during pre-season.

As Crewe Alexandra embark on this historic 150th season, the focus remains on sustainable progress both on and off the pitch. With key figures like Offord back in the fold and exciting young prospects emerging, fans have reasons to be optimistic as the Railwaymen prepare for another competitive year in the EFL.