Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell has been pleased with the progress Ryan Wintle and George Ray have made this week as they step up their return to fitness. Both have gained game time for the Under-23s at Hull on Monday and then against Runcorn in the Cheshire Senior Cup on Wednesday.

Ray has not played since Easter last season after suffering a fracture in his back. Wintle has not played since September after fracturing his tibia against Carlisle United.

Artell told crewealex.net: “Ryan and George have come through this week with flying colours.

“Ryan is further along than George and that is to be expected because George has been out a lot longer.

“They have got some game time under their belts and they will both play on Monday. We will try and get Ryan 90 minutes, or as close as we can do. George less so.

“We will see how Ryan is once he gets through on Monday and then see if he will be available for selection for next weekend.

“In George’s case, we will keep giving him game time. We are managing his load well, so he doesn’t have a relapse.

He added: “They are both doing well and Ryan is not far off.”