David Artell says he will only continue to sign the right characters to help improve his Crewe Alexandra side. Artell and his backroom staff started targeting possible signings ever since he succeeded Steve Davis as manager in January and he successfully added Callum Cooke and Jordan Bowery on loan in the window.

The club’s former captain has already signed Chris Porter, Michael Raynes and Bowery this summer and he is after defenders and midfielders to bolster his options going into the new season.

Artell has told the club’s official website that due diligence and analysis will continue to be conducted on potential signings.

Dave said: “We have worked hard at it. It started back in January when we took over. We wanted our scouts to go out and watch what we needed and we have done our due diligence on them.

“The players we have signed know what we are trying to do. We wanted those right characters, who have that pride and passion to play for the football club and represent the shirt.

“That is what I want as a manager. I just want them to do their best every day. Hard work goes a long way and most fans can see that from my team.

The boss added: “We had a list of possible players and probable players and although it is not easy to do, we have already managed to get three in we wanted. Now we will try and get more over the line.”