Rhys Taylor started 44 League Two games during his loan spell at Crewe

Crewe Alexandra manager Dario Gradi is confident that the club have played a big part in the development of young Chelsea goalkeeper Rhys Taylor.

The 21-year-old missed just two matches during his season on loan at Crewe.

Gradi told BBC Radio Stoke: "He's been good for us, although he had a lot to say for himself when he first came.

"Whenever I criticised him, I kept hearing 'Petr Cech does it this way', but he was listening and I hope we've made a contribution to his career."

Gradi continued: "He was very good when there was a suggestion he might leave at Christmas to go on loan to a Championship club.

"He was very strong on that, he said he wanted to spend the season here.

"He's been terrific and if we've helped his career, we're well pleased with that."

Taylor initially joined on a two-month loan deal at the start of the season to cover for Steve Phillips, who was recovering from a shoulder operation.

However, Crewe decided to extend his stay until the end of the campaign and he kept his more experienced colleague out of the team.

Taylor played his final match for the Alex at Bradford on Saturday, which Crewe won 5-1.

Gradi confirmed in March that Phillips, who has still a year to run on his current contract, is likely to start next season as the club's number one goalkeeper.

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