Patrick Ada scored his only goal for Crewe against Cheltenham in August

Patrick Ada says he is proud to have become a first-team regular at Crewe, having seemed certain to leave the Alex at the end of last season.

The 26-year-old was made available for loan, but stayed to fight for his place and has started all but two of Crewe's matches in League Two this term.

"It's been one of my biggest seasons and I'm proud because I've worked hard for it," he told BBC Radio Stoke.

"When you get a chance, you have to take it. I've done myself justice."

Ada initially struggled after signing from non-league Histon in the summer of 2009 and spent five months out of the team soon after the departure of then-manager Gudjon Thordarson, who had taken him to Gresty Road.

The Cameroon-born defender continued: "Last year was hard because it was my first season in the Football League and you ask yourself the question if you can really do it.

"It was frustrating when I couldn't get in the team, but I've worked hard and this year I've shown that I can do a job at this level. I'm really proud of that."

Ada's contract is due to expire at the end of the season and he confirmed that he has not yet held talks with manager Dario Gradi about extending his stay at the League Two club.

The Alex are desperate for a victory against Cheltenham on Saturday as they look to close a gap of eight points between themselves and the play-off places.

Ada scored his only senior goal in their 3-2 defeat against the Robins in August.

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