David Artell says the future of Shaun Miller will not determine if the club bring in another striker this summer. Miller, 31, is available on a free transfer this summer after his chances at first team level became more limited with a change of formation last season, but Artell says that he is seeking to sign a new forward regardless of if Miller leaves or not.

The Alex released Alex Nicholls after his contract expired and Jordan Bowery elected to step up into League One with newly promoted MK Dons rather than extend his stay with us. That leaves Chris Porter, new signing Daniel Powell, Miller and youngster Lewis Reilly as potential centre-forwards and youngsters Callum Ainley, Charlie Kirk and Owen Dale supporting from wide areas.

Dave told crewealex.net: “Regardless of if Shaun leaves or not. We are still looking for a goalscorer. There is no pressure on Shaun to leave and I have already said that I am fine with it if he does stay because he is a good player.

“There is no hard and fast rule to what might happen but we are actively looking for a forward regardless of Shaun’s position. If it goes right to deadline day then we would have to be ready because we can’t be left short.”