Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell says Luke Murphy will be considered when it’s time for the club to find a new midfield player.

The former Alex captain featured in Tuesday night’s friendly away at Nantwich, replacing Tom Lowery for the final 30 minutes of the game. With the 30-year-old without a club following his release from Bolton Wanderers, Murphy has been training with his former side.

Artell said: “Me and Luke are mates, and I said that if he needs a club to come and train with, then he can.

“Do we need a midfielder? At some point. Is it him? Don’t know, we’ve not really looked into that department as we need other positions. When we cross that bridge, he’d be considered.”

“In the meantime, we’ll have a look at him, and he can have a look at us. If something else comes up and it takes his fancy, then he doesn’t need to feel obliged to stay. It’s a win-win all round, really.

“Just two mates trying to look after each other. If something comes at the end of it, then great. If it doesn’t, we’re not going to fall out about it.”