Tom Pope has told Crewe Alex World that he is not fazed with the threat of new strikers coming into the club. First team coach Steve Holland is determined to bring in some extra firepower after admitting that the club relied too much on Nicky Maynard, who was consequently injured in the opening game of the season. It left Crewe short of goals and experience upfront.

Maynard returned to action in December and his 15 goals helped the club narrowly avoid relegation to League Two. He was ably assisted by a rejuvenated Pope who scored 3 vital goals in the final 7 games of the season. Pope is hoping to re-ignite that partnership going into next season, but he understands that he could have a fight on his hands if Holland is able to land one or two potential targets.

Tom exclusively told Crewe Alex World: "I was relatively pleased with the way things went for me last season. I think I started about 16 games, which was good. I also scored a few goals and thought that Nicky and myself were forming a decent partnership towards the end of the season.

"I started the season in-and-around the team but was left out for a few months following a poor performance at Chester. I had to pick myself up from that disappointment and I think I did that going into the second half of the season. Now I want to come back bigger and stronger next season. Nowadays a target man has to be physical and as big as the centre-halves and that is my aim."

So how does Tom feel about an impending threat for his place coming into the club?

"Competition happens at every club and I think it is good. It is something you have to deal with. I've had it before with Varney and Mike Higdon ahead of me and you just have to work hard and grab your opportunity when it does come, ' admits Tom.

"When there are other players challenging for your place then it brings you on as a player. As long as we sign good players, who will improve the squad then I don't think anyone will be complaining. You need that to push you on and to compete against one another for the benefit of the team.

"I don't think it matters too much, you can only do your best and take it from there."

More from Tom now available on Crewe Alex Word. Click here now for all the behind the scenes footage