David Artell says that yesterday’s impressive performance at Under-23s level has given him food for thought going into Saturday’s FA Cup tie against Carlisle United.

The Alex defeated Leeds United 3-0 at Reaseheath and the competitive game gave Artell the chance to look at some more of his senior players in action. Eddie Nolan, Alex Nicholls and Michael Raynes were all given game time.

Artell was impressed with the showing. He told us: “Firstly, it was a proper game. They played a lot of their pros and their manager was here, so Leeds were competitive as well. It was a worthwhile exercise and probably for the first time this season, it was a really competitive game. Both teams gave it a really good go.

“The senior players, Michael, Alex and Eddie got more minutes under their belts and that will benefit them. Lewis Reilly was terrific as well, so there was plenty to take from it.

“I don’t think that anyone who played at Northampton on Saturday and can have any complaints if they are not in the team this weekend, so there is food for thought there.”