David Artell looks forward to Papa John's Trophy tie against Shrewsbury.

David Artell says that having already qualified for the knockout stages of the Papa John’s Trophy, it becomes something of 'a free hit' for his side against Shrewsbury Town in our final group game.

Having already recorded wins over Bolton and Newcastle U-21s in the previous two games and with results going our way, Crewe and Shrewsbury have already assured their progression in the EFL Trophy.

Tonight’s fixture at Gresty Road will decide which club wins Group C. Crewe are currently second on goal difference.

Artell says that the fixture will allow some of the fringe contingent to stake their claim for more involvement in the first-team squad.

Artell told crewealex.net: “To qualify from a group consisting of three games, in two games, is good.

“We have qualified for the knockout stages, so tonight is a bit of a free hit for us. I am sure Shrewsbury will be making as many changes as they can as well. There are rules that accompany the competition and we will abide by them, but it will give the fringe players a chance to stake their claim.

“It is another game of football and we want to win it. It is important to build some momentum. Saturday’s win at Bolton has helped with that and we want to keep it going.

He added: “Winning becomes a habit, as does losing, so they are all important. It is a competition that ends with a game at Wembley, so it is something we don’t take lightly. “