Davis reads his player the riot act (From Crewe Guardian)

Crewe Alexandra boss will not stand for under-performing players

8:00am Friday 1st March 2013 in Crewe Alexandra By Toby Robinson

STEVE Davis is set to ring the changes ahead of Saturday’s home clash with rock-bottom Portsmouth.

The Alex boss has read his players the riot act – saying too many underperformed in a disappointing mid-week 3-0 defeat at struggling Hartlepool.

First-half goals from Charlie Wyke and Jonathan Franks plus a last-gasp effort from Andy Monkhouse gave the hosts a real boost in their relegation battle.

“There were some real disappointing performances for us, we played well below what we are capable off and got what we deserved,” blasted Davis.

"Credit must go to Hartlepool and going there is a difficult task in any circumstances but we made it harder for ourselves.

“Once they got their first goal, we went backwards and couldn’t get into the game.

“We’ve done superbly well this season but I’ve told the players that wasn’t good enough.

“I want players to take this club to the next level and those displays aren’t going to do that.”

Both Mathias Pogba and Harry Davis could return to the starting line-up with Matt Tootle also in contention.

Tickets are already selling for Crewe’s first ever Wembley cup final, but the boss insists he will not stand for any complacency in the league.

He wants a reaction against crisis club Pompey.

“If they think they can ease off, I’ll get someone else in,” he said.

“Only results and performances will keep a place in the team.

“We certainly won’t be throwing a game because of a cup final – I’ll make sure we are full strength.”