Boss has shaped his own squad over the last 18 months.

David Artell believes he has formed a strong looking Crewe Alexandra squad where competition for places is going to be fiercer than ever. The Crewe boss has added the experience of Paul Green, Shaun Miller and Alex Nicholls to his numbers, as well as signing a number of the club’s younger players to extended contracts.

Artell is still looking for one or two new recruits to challenge for the full-backs positions and he remains optimistic of having a successful season.

The Crewe boss told the club’s official website:  “I would say this is the strongest squad I have had and we have worked hard to bring the right players with the right characters in.

“Signing the younger ones on new contracts gave everyone a boost, especially the three of Kirk, Jones and Ainley.

“Them signing meant that we didn’t have to find replacements or give more of our younger ones a chance when they perhaps were not ready. The young ones need at least 50 games to really find their feet at first team level.

“We afford them that time here and give them the opportunities, love and support they need to develop.

“Everyone is hoping for a good season. We will be prepared and ready and then we will find out. “