David Artell admits that his side’s inconsistency makes it difficult for him to know his best eleven. The Crewe Alexandra boss has stated that places are up for grabs following back-to-back defeats to Mansfield and Northampton.

Crewe are in FA Cup action this weekend at home to Carlisle United.

Ahead of our first round tie at Gresty Road, Artell told crewealex.net: “It is about getting the right balance. Those out of the team will be thinking that they deserve a chance and it might be the right time to introduce some fresh legs, but you also want to stick with those players that have shown they can play well.

“The inconsistency makes it difficult to know what the best eleven is. One week it can be that eleven and then they don’t play as well the following game. It happens and you have to be mindful of that.

He added:  “I’ve said all along that players are selected on merit. If they play well they stay in the team and if they train well and play well for the Under-23s then they will get their chance.”