Gaffer after players capable of making an instant difference to us this New Year.

David Artell says that having matches off in the EFL has not hindered his plans for the January transfer window. The Alex boss and his staff have still been able to go out and watch matches and potential players, as well as up-and-coming opponents in League One.

The Alex boss admits that he is after ready-made, capable players as he looks to strengthen his options in the New Year, as the club tries to safeguard our League One status.

Artell told the club’s official website: “What is happening with Covid at the moment and the cancellation of games has not affected our plans too much. It hasn’t got in the way of what we want to although some clubs may be more reluctant to loan players out because they might need them if they have an outbreak. They may prefer to keep them in house, we will have to see.

“We will look to improve. We expect to do some business yes. We will continue to do our homework, our due diligence and get out and watch games if and when we can. That hasn’t stopped and we want the right characters and the right players. The requirements are the same.

The manager added: “We need players to come in and hit the ground running. We cannot bring in players in January who need time to develop. We are not after those players, that isn’t the time. We need capable players who can come in and make an impact from the off. “