David Artell says he has no qualms about handing Owen Dale his full league debut. The young winger has already convinced the Crewe boss and his staff that he is more than ready to make that next step in his career.

The former Academy graduate has certainly caught the eye with some fine performances as a substitute and he was equally impressive when starting against Middlesbrough and Aston Villa in the early rounds of the Carabao Cup.

Dale is certainly putting pressure on those ahead of him and Artell says that he has every faith in 20-year-old performing at the level if he decides to hand him his full league debut in the coming games.

The Crewe boss said: “Owen has done well and at Middlesbrough he was outstanding. I watched that game back again to view his performance and he was excellent in that game for the team. He was also very good against Aston Villa when he gave their full-back a torrid time.

“He could have had a hat-trick on the night so we know there is a player in there. He is coming along really nicely and he is chomping at the bit to be included. That is what you want as a manager.

“Owen is ready to start a game and play 90 minutes in the league. There is no reason why not. “