Crewe Alexandra manager David Artell admits that tough decisions had to be made over contract renewals and the impact of Covid-19 was bound to affect some of those of decisions this summer.

Artell had the tough task of releasing veteran performers, Nicky Hunt, Shaun Miller and Paul Green, as well as not allowing new deals to youngsters Connor Heath, Aaron Lomas and Lewis Reilly.

Artell told the club’s official website: “One end of the spectrum you are telling people, who have had a real big impact and probably heard it before and then on the other side, you are telling youngsters and crushing their dreams.

“The three youngsters have got this far, all three of them because they have got ability and now they have to go and forge their careers elsewhere. Now we will help them as much as we can.

“We will recommend them to clubs and make phone calls on their behalf. I have already spoken to one manager about one of them and if a vote goes their way soon then they might be playing football very quickly.

“It is never easy telling people. It’s part of the job and we wish all of them, old, or young or in between all the best and I genuinely hope they have a future in the game.

The boss added: “Covid-19 has affected every club and will influence decisions. We are not the only club. Any club that says it hasn’t been affected by it will be very much in the minority.”