David Artell has told crewealex.net that he was delighted with his late business in the summer window. The Alex boss was eager to provide more cover and competition to his squad and with George Ray (back) and James Jones (hernia) still working on their fitness; he has added a defender and a midfielder to his options.
The Crewe Alexandra boss acted quickly to secure the services of Everton midfielder Conor Grant and Wigan defender Sam Stubbs on loan until January 10th.
Artell said: “I’m delighted with the business we have done this summer and getting the other two lads in this week will only help us. They know they have to work their way into the team and those in possession of the shirts at the moment have to play well to stay in the team. The competition is good.
“Sam provides cover for us at centre-half and we were eager to do it once we knew that George (Ray) would be out longer than we thought. Sam knows that if he plays well then he will get a chance. I am not afraid to do that and playing Billy (Sass-Davies) this week proves that. We will give them a chance and see if they sink or swim.
“Conor is a bit different. He has been out on loan five times and knows the league. He is further on in his development than Sam and won promotion with Doncaster last season.
“We have a 19 and 20 year-old in central midfield and Callum Ainley has been terrific when he has played as well, but physically there will come a time when they need a rest.
“Conor is full of beans and wants to come here and show what he can do. He knows that we have started well and that he will have to remain patient but we’ll see how both of them do. They are in the same boat as all the other players, who are vying to get into the team.”