Crewe boss says Ray will only continue to improve after signing his new deal last week.

Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell is pleased that George Ray pledged his future to the Football Club for the next couple of seasons. Ray became the latest Crewe player to sign a new deal this summer and the Crewe boss says that the former Wales Under-21 defender has all the attributes to become a top player.

Ray is hoping to convince the gaffer to name him his club captain once again after handing the centre-half the armband when he succeeded Steve Davis as manager back in January. Artell has not revealed who his captain is going to be, as players battle it out for places during pre-season.

Artell is pleased that Ray has decided to continue his development at Crewe. The Alex boss said: “George told me a couple of weeks ago, but he took time just in case someone came in and offered him thousands of pounds a week we don't offer him.

“Fair enough, that's his prerogative. Do I agree with it? Not particularly. Do I understand it? Yes, of course. Does it impact our relationship? Not really. Would I have preferred him to sign straight away? Yes, of course.

“George is George, he's a great character. I had no worries with him.

“I didn't hold a gun to George's head and he signed the contract, so he must be happy. I'm happy he signed.

“I'm expecting the same level of performances he gave in the second half of last season. He has all the attributes to be a top player, but you can say that about plenty of them and they all won't be. George has to make sure he is one of them.”