Crewe boss David Artell has praised the adaptability of his young midfielder Ryan Wintle after he has been asked to play a more defensive role. Wintle has almost been a regular since Artell succeeded Steve Davis back in January and although he has had to curb some of his attacking instincts’, Wintle has shown what a bright footballer he is by adapting quickly to his new role.

The 20-year-old snuffed out the Port Vale threat on his return to Staffordshire and nearly grabbed his second career goal with a well struck shot in the second half.

Artell said of Wintle: “Ryan has switched roles and become more of a defensive midfielder but he has adapted to the role quickly.

“He is a bright footballer and he sees things on the pitch. He spots danger quickly and gets into some fantastic positions. He is the one who snuffs out danger and a lot of things he does for the team are not spotted.

“He probably didn’t have his best game when in possession on Saturday, but he didn’t half put a shift in for his teammates. They appreciate the work he does and so do we.”