Crewe Alexandra manager David Artell is confident that Zoumana Bakayogo will be available for the opening game of the season on Saturday. The left full-back was not risked against Stoke City at the weekend after receiving a knock on his knee.

With Harry Pickering also suffering from illness, Artell altered his formation and used Eddie Nolan as the left sided defender in a three. Crewe won the game 3-1 thanks to first half goals from George Cooper, Chris Porter and Eddie Nolan.

Dave said: “Zoumana had a knock on his knee and we didn’t play him as a precaution. We were cautious with him as it is not worth taking that risk so close to the season.

“His knee had flared up a bit so he has had an injection and it has settled down. He had the same problem last season and he was fine and I expect him to be the same this time. He will be fine.”