Boss Dave Artell believes the signing of Nicky Hunt completes a key piece of the Crewe Alex puzzle after the veteran defender penned a 12-month contract this week.

The 34-year-old former Bolton, Notts County & Accrington man impressed during a four-week trial at Reaseheath this pre-season & Artell is pleased with the competition his new man will offer in the full-back positions.

Dave said: "He's been an exemplary pro I have to say.

"He's just got on with the job, trained every day, got himself fit & you can see he's got plenty about him.

"The real key thing is that he offers something different in the squad to what we've got at the minute.

"We're delighted to get him on board & he's going to play an important part & plenty of games in what we're trying to do this season."

Click here to view the press release after Nicky Hunt completed his Alex switch.