David Artell says it is about time we played our near neighbours in pre-season.

Crewe Alexandra manager David Artell is delighted that our local neighbours Stoke City have agreed to play us in pre-season. The Alex boss believes that ‘it’s about time’ that the Railwaymen faced the Potters and believes it will be the perfect curtain raiser before the start of the new season.

July and the Premier League side have agreed to bring some members of their senior squad as they to prepare for the new season.^thCrewe will host Mark Hughes’ side on Saturday 30

Artell told the club’s official web-site: “I think it is about time Crewe played Stoke. It has been too long.

“I’ve been promised that they will bring half a dozen experienced pros, so hopefully the fans will come. It’s the week before the season and will be our only home friendly because of the work on the pitch.

“I’m sure Stoke will bring a few fans as well. There should be a good atmosphere and should be a good one for the supporters. It is one to look forward to.”

Crewe Alexandra can announce that we will be travelling to Barrow on Tuesday 18th July.