David Artell believes that this weekend’s opponents Bury FC will be ‘there or thereabouts’ at the end of the season.

The Shakers, managed by our former player, Ryan Lowe, are currently mid-table but are still just two points adrift of a play-off spot.

Crewe Alexandra will be hoping that our impressive home form can continue this weekend. The Railwaymen have lost just one home game this season and conceded just the one goal to rivals Port Vale.

Ahead of this weekend’s fixture, Artell told us: “I’m sure Bury were many people’s favourites for promotion. I’m sure they were with the bookies.

“They had come down from League One and have a fairly good budget. I’m sure they will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.

“We have conceded only 11 goals and six of them have come in the same game, so we know where we need to improve. Our defending has been relatively good but we need to improve at the other end of the pitch.

“We will keep working on it and it is easier when you know where the improvement is needed.”