David Artell believes that honesty paid off in convincing James Jones, Charlie Kirk and Callum Ainley to sign new contracts with the football club. The news that the talented trio have agreed new deals is a welcomed boost ahead of our final game of the season against Cheltenham Town tomorrow.

The Crewe boss remained upbeat and confident that the three former Academy graduates would commit their futures ahead of the summer break.

He told the club’s official website: “I think we have been honest with them and we have been honest with their agents. I am just honest and fair and say it as it is.

“To be fair their agents have been good and we just told them where we are, what we can offer and where the club wants to go.

“There were no ifs, buts or maybes and we were never held to ransom. They wanted to be a part of this football club and we made them a fair offer.

“I just told them that they had been here for a long time. They have been here since 8,9, 10 or whatever it is and they have trusted us all the way through. Why wouldn’t they trust us now? Why wouldn’t they believe us?

He added: “We have always been honest and open with them. We have got previous if you like. We have a track record of getting players where they want to get to.”