David Artell previews his first game in charge of the club.

David Artell is expecting a tough opening game in his managerial career when Nathan Jones brings his footballing Luton side to Gresty Road for the first time since October 2007. Crewe Alexandra won 2-0 that day with substitute Ryan Lowe scoring both goals.

Artell has certainly been impressed by Luton’s first half of the season and the Hatters are handily placed for a push towards the play-off place. They are currently one place and one point off of 7th placed Barnet.

  Ahead of our meeting this weekend, Artell said: “Luton are a good footballing side. They like to get the ball down and play. Their manager has implemented his philosophy and he likes to play the right way. That is not to say that they cannot mix it up because they can and we will have to match them for that as well.

“They are always well supported and it is a good game to start with. We are at home and in need of a win ourselves. If we play to our potential then there is no reason why we cannot turn them over.

“Luton have good players, who can hurt you but they will be just as concerned when they look at our team. We have good players as well and hopefully we can stick in the game and our skills will paid dividends in the end.

David added: “It is a tough game but one I am looking forward to. I will be a proud man to manage Crewe.”