Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell says he is hopeful of bringing in a new face before Saturday’s home game against FA Cup giant killers Newport County. With full-backs, Corey Whelan and Kevin O’Connor returning to their respective clubs following the conclusion of their loan deals, Artell is on the lookout for reinforcements in those positions.

That desire to bring in another defender has been heightened by the recent calf injury to the versatile Eddie Nolan. Therefore, a defender remains the priority at the start of the transfer window.

The Crewe boss told crewealex.net: “We’re beavering away in the background and we hope we’ll have some business to conclude before the weekend game.

 “Then obviously we’ll get the game out of the way. We’ll see where we are next week, and the week after.

“The number of players we can sign will depend on our own players.

  “If we have an offer for one of our players, or if any of our players that aren’t playing and we allow them to go out on loan.

“It could be anything from one to five. Five will depend on others (leaving) – one won’t, so that’s where we’re at the minute.”