David Artell is delighted that four of his squad have penned new contracts this week. Goalkeeper Dave Richards has joined Academy graduates, Harry Pickering, Lewis Reilly and Owen Dale in signing new and improved deals and Artell believes that they remain in the right place to continue their development.

The Crewe boss told crewealex.net: “I am pleased that the four lads have signed their contracts and will be staying with us. They are not ready to leave and they are in the right place to continue their development.

“They deserve their contracts as a reward for their development. They are heading in the right direction and the best place for them is here. When they are ready to leave then we will tell them because this is what this football club is all about.

“If they keep working hard then they bright futures and when they are ready, they can go with our blessing onto bigger and better things.”