Callum Ainley did his chances of starting the season in David Artell’s starting XI no harm at all with another fine performance against Nottingham Forest at the weekend.

The Alex boss described Ainley as ‘our best player on the day’ and says that if he continues to play as he has been doing in pre- then it won’t be long before other clubs will be taking note.

Ainley endured an injury-hit season last time out but returned to finish the season on a high with the winning goal away at Bristol Rovers.

The attack-minded midfielder was on target in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest at Mornflake Stadium.

Artell told the club’s official website: “I thought Callum was our best player on the day against Forest. I thought he was a bit detached from the other midfielders in the first half but once he got his distances right, he was a major threat.

“I thought he was a real threat in and around their box and he scored a terrific goal.

“That was the Callum Ainley we want to see. We want to see him perform like that every game. If he does then I’m sure he won’t be with us next season!

The boss added: “We know what a good player he is. We wouldn’t have offered him a new two year contract if he wasn’t a good player. I have a lot of time for Callum and he knows he has to become more consistent and I have to become more consistent with him on my part as well. “