Crewe want to build winning mentality - Lunt

Owen Lunt's only other first-team goal was for Southport during a loan spell with the non-league side last season

Crewe Alexandra midfielder Owen Lunt says the squad are determined to carry on building a "winning mentality" at the League Two club this season.

The Alex maintained their 100% winning progress in the Vertu Trophy on Tuesday with a 3-1 victory in their final group game at Burton Albion.

Lee Bell's side are now waiting to find out who they play in the last 32 of the competition, with the draw to be made on Thursday.

Lunt started on the bench against the Brewers before coming on as a second-half substitute to help his side see out the game.

"We want a winning mentality at the club - that's what the manager wants as well - so we have to keep winning and keep progressing," he told BBC Radio Stoke.

"We don't want to get ahead of ourselves but we're looking good (in this competition) and we've just got to take it step by step."

The competition has been a well-used opportunity for Crewe's young players to get their first taste of first-team football.

Lunt made his debut for the Alex in the EFL Trophy three years ago as an 18-year-old and said he uses his own experience to help the likes of Oliver Armstrong, Ryan Chadwick, Phil Croker, Stan Dancey, Jordan Hodkin and Luca Moore, who have all cut their teeth in the competition.

"I've been in their situation. I made my debut in this cup as well. It's scary and nerve-wracking but I've tried to encourage them," Lunt said.

"They're good players, that's why they're with us. They'll be fine."

Crewe return to League Two action on Saturday at Oldham Athletic with Lunt fresh from scoring his first senior goal in the 3-1 win against Shrewsbury Town last weekend.

"I was buzzing. It was my first one and I took it well. I need to try to get more now," he said.

"I've got to kick on and add more numbers to my game - especially the position I'm playing."

With only four points separating the top eight sides, Lunt says Crewe, currently eighth, know how tight things are.

"You're in and out of it. It's very close. Anything can happen," he added.

"You go and win your next two of three, you're probably sitting at the top."