Barnard told the official website www.crewealex.net "I did have some other offers, but obviously I knew all about Crewe's reputation for bringing players through. I spoke to Danny Murphy and he told me all about the club and how it works.
"He told me that it was a good club, with good football people there and that made my mind up really. Hopefully, they will bring me on as a player now and that will only benefit my career. I have been impressed with everything and I just want to do my best for Crewe."
Barnard may still feature in Saturdays trip to Swindon though the JPT tie against local rivals Chester City maybe more realistic.