Crewe Alexandra manager David Artell says that Callum Ainley grew into the game against Blackpool and showed his quality when he produced the cross of the match to see summer signing Alex Nicholls head against the crossbar.

Ainley elected to pass to his team-mate Charlie Kirk when presented with a good chance to get a shot off in the first half but Artell says that the talented youngster is not short of confidence in front of goal.

David told the club’s official website: “Callum had a chance to shoot in the first half but unselfishly looked for his mate. It was about his decision making and we spoke to him at half time.

“We just told him that he is a good player and to keep going. He improved in the second half and he produced the pass of the game when he found Alex and he headed it against the bar. It was a superb cross and showed his quality.

“He is fine and will be an important player for us again this season.”