Crewe Alexandra youngster Owen Dale believes that he has only benefitted from enjoying a successful loan spell at Witton Albion. The lightening quick forward has scored five goals in 19 games to help Witton challenge for a play-off place in the Evo-Stick Premier Division.

Dale, 19, was rewarded with a new two-year deal with Crewe last week and he says that playing competitive football will only enhance his development.  

“I’ve been out on loan this season and I think that will help me immensely going into next season. It is just a question of knuckling down and pushing on to try and get into the squad, ‘ says Owen.

He added: “I think it has been massively beneficial going out on loan to Witton and getting the experience of playing men’s football. It has helped me learn about the game and that will help me a lot going forward.”