David Artell says he is open to more Crewe Alexandra youngsters gaining invaluable playing experience out on loan to assist their development.

The Alex boss feels that Dan Udoh, Ollie Finney and Will Jaaskelainen are all benefitting from their current loan spells and he says he would like others to go out on loan in the future.

Udoh and Finney are currently on loan at Halesowen FC and Jaaskelainen is gaining game time with our near neighbours Nantwich Town.

The Crewe boss told the clubs official website: “We have had discussions about the youngsters’ development and I would like more of them to go out and play on loan.

“It is difficult because of the number of games we have at U-23 level and the demands we have with the fixtures.

“From Rob Hulse, Ashley Westwood, to Kelvin Mellor, to AJ to now Dan Udoh and Finney and Will, they have all gained great experience out on loan.

“It is all part of their development. Now it is not right for everyone and it is about balancing it, so we are not left short in terms of numbers, but I think there is a tremendous benefit to them going out on loan.

“They can get lost in 23s football and when they step up into the first team squad is difficult. It is a massive step.

“If they go out, play games and play well then they are a step closer to playing men’s football at first team level.

He added: “It would need some planning and organising to put them where we want to put them but all credit to the three players we have out at the moment. “