Boss says Ray and Bowery understood his stance on squad selection.

Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell says he hopes people understand his decisions to give some of his fringe contingent more of a chance in the remaining games of the season.

The Alex boss made the bold move of leaving the out-of-contract, George Ray and Jordan Bowery out of his match day squad on Saturday and after recalling Lewis Reilly and Billy Sass Davies from their loan spells they were both included in the squad for the visit of Notts County.

Reilly came off the bench for only his second league appearance of the season. Tom Lowery also made his second league start after earning a recall and Owen Dale was once again introduced as an impact substitute in our comfortable 3-0 win, playing a key role in Ryan Wintle's close range finish.

The Crewe boss told the club’s official website: “George and Jordan are out of contract and they understand that we are trying to look at other things.

"Does that mean they won't play next week? Of course not.

"There is every chance of them playing next week, there's every chance of 22 others playing next week.

"Previous history and form doesn't go out of the window, but we have to look to the future.

"We've offered them both a contract and talks are still on going and that's where we are at.

  "That doesn't mean to say they won't be here, but they both understand the situation. I spoke to George at length before the game and I spoke to Jordon (on Friday) at length and they get it.”

The boss added: "They are professional footballers, they understand.”