Born from good footballing stock, with his father Dave a legendary forward in non-league circles, Maynard has made superb progress throughout his time working his way through the youth set up at the Alex.

He was an important member of the clubs successful Youth Team, which reached the Semi Finals of the FA Youth Cup in 2004, and enjoyed a superb season in 2004/2005.

After scoring 15 goals Nicky earned himself his first professional contract at the club.

Loaned out to Witton Albion in January 2006, Maynard made a big impression with the non-leaguers, helping them to their most successful run of the season in the UniBond League.

After returning to Crewe Nicky continued to show fine form in the Reserves, and was handed his first team debut on the final day of the 2005/06 season, coming on as a half-time substitute against Millwall and scoring with his first touch .

Although he began the season back on the sidlines, it didn't take the composed striker too long to displace Luke Rodgers in the starting eleven. Crewe relied on the Varney and Maynard partnership to flourish in the league and en route to the Northern Final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. Maynard enjoyed a superb debut season in front of goals, scoring 19 goals in just 38 appearances.

That impressive tally would have been even greater if it was not for a couple of untimely hamstring pulls.