Crewe Alexandra manager, David Artell, says that Brad Walker has to continue being patient following his summer move from Hartlepool in the summer. Walker has been played in various positions this season resulting in the 22-year-old registering 27 appearances during his debut season at Gresty Road.

Walker returned to the starting XI against Grimsby Town on New Years’ Day and marked his return with a stunning volley to put us 2-0 ahead against the Mariners.

Artell told the club’s official website: “Brad has had to remain patient and he has played in a number of positions for us. He would be the first to admit that he struggled to play in a two-man midfield but he has done okay in a three.

“He played centre-half for Hartlepool and he is fine there, but when he played alongside an inexperienced centre-half in Sam Stubbs at Blackburn, he struggled.

“Brad is still very young. He is only 22 and there is plenty to work with. We will continue to work with him and give him all the tools to play different positions.

“When you come through the Crewe Academy, like Perry Ng has for an example, you are encouraged to play in different positions. He has played right-back, centre half and as a deep lying midfield player, so he has all the skills to play those positions. Brad is still learning.”