Crewe's new manager up for the challenge of moving us up the table.

David Artell says he did not hesitate to accept his first managerial role in football when the opportunity arose at Crewe Alexandra. Artell has succeeded Steve Davis as the club’s new manager and he has integrated Academy coaches, Kenny Lunt and Alex Morris, as part of his new-look backroom staff. Head of recruitment Neil Baker will also work more closely with the first-team.

In his first press conference as manager, David said: “I had no hesitation in accepting the job. Of course, it is human nature to evaluate things but I knew it was a great opportunity.

“We are all in it together and I know that the staff here and the players in the dressing room can turn around. We need the supporters with us and we all know things have not been good enough.

“I want to take the chance with both hands and I have enough belief in myself and those around me to make sure we make it work.

“I had time to reflect over the weekend and it is probably the first time I’ve been able to do that. I was a local lad from a council estate in Rotherham. I got to play for my hometown club and won two promotions in two seasons and played in the Championship.

He added: “I then went on to play International football and faced the World Champions, so that isn’t a bad playing career. Many would have taken that as a playing career and now I want to be successful in my management career.”