Artell looks forward to Hull challenge and meeting up again with Grant McCann

Crewe Alexandra welcome league leaders Hull City to the Alexandra Stadium on Friday and David Artell is already looking forward to the challenge against the in-form Tigers.

Grant McCann’s side have lost just once in 10 games and were held to a 1-1 home draw with Gillingham at the weekend. They are currently top of the league by one point ahead of Peterborough.

Crewe narrowly lost 1-0 to Hull way back in September and gave a good account of ourselves before conceding late on to Mallik Wilks.

Artell told the club’s official website: “I like Grant (McCann) a lot. He is a good guy. I spoke to him after the game earlier in the season and his parents were in there too. They are a really nice family and I wish him all the best after Friday.

“We were perhaps a bit unfortunate to lose the game earlier in the season. We conceded late on and it was a good game. They are a good side and that is why they are top of the league.

The manager added: “Hopefully, we can play a bit better and win the game this time. It will certainly be a challenge against one of the most consistent sides in the division but we will do everything we can to win the game and see where that puts us.”