Crewe Alexandra youngster Harry Pickering feels he is really beginning to find his feet at first-team level now. David Artell has really shown his faith in the versatile youngster by using him in various positions in defence and midfield and the 19-year-old Pickering has now amassed 38 appearances in all competitions.

He has even contributed two important goals in away wins at Lincoln City and Mansfield Town.

Pickering, who must be strong contender for the club’s Breakthrough Player of the Season, said: “The manager and Kenny (Lunt) showing that faith in me has given me the confidence to push on and improve.

“When I first went into the team, I didn’t know what to expect really and it was just a question  of getting through the game and playing as well as I could. Now I feel more comfort and settled and I think I’ve done alright.

“I’ve really enjoyed it and I think playing in the different positions has helped with my experience. It has allowed me to play as many games as I have and I always try and do my best wherever I am asked to play.

“I am learning all the time and picking little things up from the more senior players to help me improve.

Harry added: “I want to finish the season as strong as I can and then get a good pre-season under my belt and push on into next season. “