David Artell is convinced that his young winger, Charlie Kirk, has become even more than a match winner for Crewe Alexandra. Kirk, 21, notched the only goal of the game against Burnley on Saturday to continue his good form.

Over the last 15 games of last season, Kirk scored 6 goals and continued to contribute key assists. Kirk ended the season with a superb brace against Forest Green Rovers in a thrilling 4-3 home win.

Artell says that the Winsford-based forward has kicked on again.

He told the club’s official website: “Charlie is now more than a match winner for us. I know he is going to score goals again and provide assists. He has kicked on again and his link-up play with the likes of Harry Pickering, Paul Green and Tom Lowery has been terrific.

“Charlie is a really bright footballer but he has now become a really effective one as well. He will score and create goals for us and he showed great technique for the half volley at the far post that (Nick) Pope made look easier than it was.

“He has a great talent Charlie and we expect him to go on to bigger and brighter things in the future.”