With Danny Murphy, David Platt, Rob Jones and Dean Ashton all featuring on the Crewe Alexandra conveyor belt of talent, it’s no wonder the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy is casting its eye on Gresty Road again.
The trophy is ready to induct another player into its ‘Colourful Generation’ squad in recognition of the young talent currently in the competition – with Ashley Westwood the latest prospect to make the grade.
Each month, the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy will herald a promising player of tomorrow and will award his parent club with a donation of vouchers to spend at one of its 197 Johnstone’s decorating centres nationwide.
And in a possible sign of things to come, 20 year-old Ashley is grabbing the headlines after a string of impressive performances for his club.
Westwood enjoyed an outstanding first season in the Railwaymen’s first team, making 38 appearances and scoring 5 goals.
He has shown his real versatility by playing in both full-back positions, on the right hand side of midfield and in his preferred position in central midfield.
He enjoyed a 2009/10 season beyond even his own expectations, walking away with numerous player of the year awards and the end of the campaign.
A solid and committed player, Ashley spent the majority of last season playing in midfield, although he did slot in at full back when required.
Not shy of a goal or two either, Ashley netted his first professional strike against Chesterfield in December 2009 with a stunningly taken free kick from 25 years out.
And now, the youngster is looking even more impressive, masterminding his side’s progression to the area quarter finals of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy against Macclesfield, and notching a brace in his side’s recent draw with Torquay United.
So impressive have been his performances, that Crewe’s famous and hugely respected manager Dario Gradi gave Westwood the skipper’s armband in a rotation policy with two other players.
Johnstone’s Paint Trophy’s sponsorship manager Teresa Hardwick said: “Our aim with this Colourful Generation initiative is to highlight and celebrate the talent that stars in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.
“Ashley fits that category perfectly, and we have been really impressed with his performances so far.
“We wish him and Crewe all the best for the rest of the season and we look forward to seeing him in action again soon.”
Crewe Alexandra will now be presented with £100 in Johnstone’s Paint vouchers for their role in nurturing their young players through their centre of excellence.
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©2009 Johnstone's Paint Site by Cogent Elliott
