Dave Richards: Crewe sign ex-Bristol City goalkeeper

Dave Richards (l) spent the vast majority of last season on the bench for Steve Cotterill's Bristol City

Crewe Alexandra have signed goalkeeper Dave Richards following his release by promoted League One champions Bristol City.

The Welshman, 21, has signed a 12-month deal with League One side Crewe, with the option of a further year.

Richards, signed from Cardiff City in January 2014, did not make a professional appearance in his time at Ashton Gate.

He will provide competition for first-choice Alex keeper Ben Garratt.

Meanwhile, 22-year-old defender Jon Guthrie has signed a new one-year deal as the club have activated the one-year-option in his previous contract. The new deal includes an option of another year to cover the 2016-17 season.

Guthrie is one of three defenders that Crewe have injury concerns about ahead of their first league game at home to Port Vale on 8 August.

Manager Steve Davis could bring in reinforcements as his son, Harry, and George Ray have also picked up knocks.

"We could have all three back for the start of the season," Davis told BBC Radio Stoke. "George felt his hamstring, so there was no point persevering at the risk of making it worse. Jon picked up a tight groin in training and Harry is very close as it's only a little nick in his medial.

"But we are still looking to strengthen as it showed our weakness in that department and we're trying to get something sorted."