Alex boss David Artell knows all about the threat Nicky Maynard poses to his team this weekend. The former Crewe Alexandra Academy graduate has signed a short term deal with the Shakers and showed his quality with a superb brace in a draw against Mansfield Town last weekend.

Artell says he knows about Maynard’s finishing qualities after seeing him up close and personal over the summer. The former Bristol City, West Ham, Cardiff and MK Dons man was allowed to train with us over the pre-season to keep himself fit.

Artell told crewealex.net: “We know the threat Nicky poses. He is a good player and we saw that in the summer when he was here. He has always been an outstanding finisher and we will have to keep a close eye on him.

“He was going to this club and this club in the summer, but Bury were the ones who made him an offer and he has gone there.

“We wish him all the best, but only after Saturday!”