Gradi fears teen duo burn-out

Powell: For Crewe and Country

Crew manager Dario Gradi is worried his young star players are playing too much football.

Alex academy products Max Clayton and Nick Powell are currently away with England at the Under-17 European Championships in Serbia.

Gradi is pleased the club's youngsters continue to be recognised at international level, but the Railwaymen boss does not want them to suffer burn-out.

He told the club's official website: "We could do with our young players being ready for next season. I read a good piece from Kenny Dalglish over the weekend that said there seem to be a lot of England teams now.

"He made a very good argument about young boys being asked to play throughout the summer at tournaments and it affecting their development. I totally agree with him.

"I would prefer it if out boys were resting more over the summer and letting their bodies develop. But they enjoy playing for England so it is difficult to tell them otherwise."