David Artell says that Luke Offord thoroughly deserved his call up to the first team squad following his impressive loan spell at Nantwich Town.

Offord played in various positions for the Dabbers and won a number of man-of-the-match awards during his spell at the Weaver Stadium.

The Alex boss told the club’s official website: “Luke did very well at Nantwich and they wanted to keep him. He deserves his promotion to the first-team squad.

“He is a good player and has great character. He has great versatility and can play centre-half, right back and holding midfielder.

He added: “It is terrific to see another one of our young ones coming through. It is pleasing to see another one of our young players who has been with us at 7,8,9 years of age to progress and see his hard work and our work be rewarded.”