Lee Bell singled out Rio Adebisi for special praise after the defender made it three goals in his last three league games for Crewe Alexandra.

The 22-year-old scored a screamer on the final day of last season in a draw against tomorrow’s opponents Newport County (Tuesday, 7.45pm).

And the full-back has headed super equalisers against Mansfield and Swindon so far this term.

Manager Bell said the homegrown player is simply being rewarded for his desire to get on the end of things.

“Rio has the willingness to head the football and he is showing great endeavour to get in the box from wherever he has been asked to play,” he said.

“The more you get in the box the more opportunities you will have to score and he is terrific in both boxes at heading the ball.

“He gets touches in the opposition box and has a real knack for getting on the end of things. I’m really pleased with him.”

All five Crewe goals have come from defenders this term, with Luke Offord, Mickey Demetriou and Zac Williams all chipping in.  

Bell added: “It’s not something we have worked on particularly but it shows that they are playing with energy and looking to get forward.

“Of course, we need the midfielders to contribute and forwards to score, and they will do because they are good players.”