David Artell is excepting an intriguing and difficult test against Newcastle United’s youngsters this evening. The Crewe Alexandra boss is looking to progress in the Checkatrade Trophy this season after the club disappointingly exited at the group stage last season under previous boss Steve Davis.

Artell says that the Newcastle youngsters that are managed by their former player and England International Peter Beardsley will be a tough encounter at Gresty Road this evening.

Artell told the club’s official web-site: “The Newcastle lads have come through the Academy system so I expect them to be technically proficient. They may also be a touch inexperienced but in what sense we will have to see on the night.

“It will be interesting to see who plays for them but I know that under Peter they will be well drilled, organised and they will give us a real good game.

“Peter is a good guy, a football man and he played at the very highest level. He had an unbelievable career and he has been associated with Newcastle over many years as a player and as a coach.”