Boss says talented teenager Charlie Kirk deserved his call-up to the first-team squad at the weekend.

Youngster Charlie Kirk became the latest Academy graduate to be involved with the first team when he was named on the substitutes’ bench for the first time for the visit of Rochdale at the weekend. Kirk, who has been in good form for the Under-18s and Under-21s of late, has joined the likes of Callum Ainley and Joe Howell who have all earned a squad number in Steve Davis’ squad.

Forward Kirk is regarded as one for the future by the club and Davis stresses that the hard work is just beginning for the 18-year-old from Winsford.

Steve told crewealex.net: “I think that the young players having to earn their shirt and squad number has worked this season. They needed that incentive and they know they have to do well on a regular basis to earn the right to be a member of the first team squad.

“Charlie is the latest young player to do that and he has worked hard for it. He has hit a consistent level of late and his performances have been noticed.

“The young players here know that if they work hard and play well on a consistent basis then they will get a chance here. That is what it is about and players like Charlie are hopefully the future of the club.

He added: “Charlie has great ability but as a young player I don’t want to talk him up too much and put unnecessary pressure on him. Only time will tell if he will reach his full potential but we know he is a talented young player.”