Youngsters have been the 'light' as we aim for a much better season.

Charlie Kirk and Callum Ainley have deserved their opportunities in the first team, according to boss Steve Davis. The Crewe Alexandra boss believes that Ainley and Kirk have been the ‘light’ when the staff have analysed games, but he will be looking for them to improve their defensive responsibilities for next season.

First-year scholars Callum Ainley and Charlie Kirk have broken into the first team picture this season and have been a real positive emerging from a disappointing season.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “They have both done great for us and they deserve their opportunities. People many say that we put them a little early or that they were too young but age has no barrier at this club. If they are good enough then they are old enough.

“They have proved that they are good enough with their performances in what is a tough league and in a difficult situation. It has been tough for them but they have shown skill and courage.

“They still have a long way to go and they have to become more dangerous in the final third. They have to create and score goals and find those pockets of space.

He added: “They have to improve defensively. It can be a problem with our Academy graduates and they have to know the importance of that role. We will work with them over the summer and make sure they improve on that.”