David Artell says that he is preparing for all eventualities in January and that his target list is progressing well. The Alex boss had already admitted that much will depend on the fitness levels of his injured trio, George Ray, James Jones and Ryan Wintle in the middle of January before he decides what is potentially needed in the window.

All three of the club's injured players have been out running on grass following their lengthy lay-offs.

David told crewealex.net: “We will plan for all eventualities in January. Much will depend on those coming back. We will have to wait and see how they are in the middle of the month before we decide what we may need to do.

“Those two weeks will give us a good indication of where we are with them but they have all been out running on grass. They will need to play some games for the U-23s before we can consider them.

“Once we know how far they are off we will discuss what we need and the plans for Sam Stubbs and Conor Grant, who’s loan deals end in the New Year.”