Crewe Alexandra boss Lee Bell has appointed Ryan Dicker as Assistant Manager.

The 36-year-old, who has been a full-time coach with the club for more than seven years, will officially take over the role vacated by Alex Morris earlier this summer.

The former defender, highly respected in coaching circles, was previously a trusted assistant to Bell when the pair were in charge of the Under-18s.

Dicker has impressed while stepping up from his role of U18s Manager to work with the first team players throughout this summer.

Bell said: “I’m delighted that Ryan has accepted the role. I was determined to take my time over making an appointment so I could take advice and explore a number of options.

“Ryan is someone I have admired for a long time. Tactically he is excellent and he has the respect of the players.  

“I’m extremely confident that this is the right decision and now the focus of the whole backroom team is on preparation for Saturday’s opening game.”