Crewe Alexandra's new interim manager has demanded his senior players deliver 'high standards' of performance - following the shock managerial switch.

Lee Bell took interim charge last week (November 4), after Alex Morris stepped down to first team assistant manager for 'compassionate reasons.'

The 39-year-old managed a 1-0 victory over League Two leaders, Leyton Orient, in the FA Cup first round on Saturday (November 5).

Lee Bell managed a 1-0 victory over League Two leaders, Leyton Orient, in the FA Cup first round on Saturday - November 5 (Kevin Warburton).

Bell has since held phone conversations with some of Crewe's experienced professionals - telling them what he expects.

The Crewe interim manager told the club's website: "We are constantly speaking to the older players, but I had some very good conversations with them on the phone over the weekend.

"I want to give them ownership and make sure they are demanding high standards from the other players, as well as hitting those standards themselves.

"I want to build on all the good stuff that's already been done here.

Lee Bell played for Crewe Alexandra in two separate spells - making a total of 128 appearances (Kevin Warburton).

"I just want to take it up a notch in terms of how they are preparing for training sessions, what I expect sessions to look like, and what the players should expect from each other – not allowing standards to drop.

"There will be lots of tweaks here and there."

Bassala Sambou scored Crewe's winning goal against Leyton Orient on Saturday.

The 90+2 strike, assisted by Kelvin Mellor, was enough to send the Alex through.

Bassala Sambou scored Crewe's winning goal against Leyton Orient on Saturday - November 5 (Kevin Warburton).

Last night (November 7), Crewe were drawn away to League One Barnsley in the FA Cup second round.

Bell added: "It was a really proud day. To lead the team into a professional game, having been here for so long, was a proud moment and I thought the team put in a strong performance. 

"When I was younger I never thought I'd be in this sort of position, but I took a liking to (coaching) when I was in my mid-20s, and I'm delighted to still be at this football club." 

Lee Bell played for Crewe Alexandra in two separate spells - making a total of 128 appearances.

A view from the stands. Lee Bell was Crewe's first team assistant manager from April until November (Ryan Parker).

The former shared club captain is now determined to lead the Railwaymen up the League Two table.

Next up: Crewe Alexandra host League Two's bottom side, Colchester United, at The Mornflake Stadium on Saturday (November 12).

READ MORE: New community coffee shop opens in Crewe - supported by Co-op members.

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