Loan latest from the gaffer

Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell says that it is ‘obvious to anyone’ that he needs defensive reinforcements during the January transfer window. The Alex boss hit back at claims that he has delayed in bringing in a new centre-half in on loan and says that one potential target was recently injured and one offer of paying a particular wage percentage was rejected by another club.

Artell told the club’s official website: “We went to watch a potential player and he was injured. We made an offer to a club about another one but that was a no, so we have been working hard on trying to get one in.

“The work started well in advance of January and we have a list of targets that we are working through. These things do not happen overnight, they just don’t.

“We are after someone who can come in and improve us, so if there is any Crewe fan out there who knows one and we can afford him then let me know. I am approachable.

“We haven’t delayed. Far from it. I haven’t delayed on purpose. We have been out watching players and talking to agents and like I’ve said these things take a bit of time.

The boss added: “It is certainly not for the lack of trying I can assure you. I think it is obvious what we need and what we are trying to do. I know how important it is and that is why we are trying to get the best one we can in because I will not bring one in for the sake of it.”