Lee Bell has heaped praise on Lewis Leigh after the loan man made his full debut for Crewe Alexandra at the weekend.

The 20-year-old joined on loan from Preston in January, but has had to be content with sub appearances in League Two.

But the midfielder started in the 1- 1 draw with AFC Wimbledon, and caught the eye with a combative and energetic display.

Manager Bell said: “I was really impressed with Lewis.

“His attitude has been excellent. He’s bought into the group ethos and he has been exceptional in training.

“He’s been mature and brilliant with the other players, it would have been easy to go the other way.

“His attitude will take the lad a long way in his career because you can see the obvious technical attributes too. 

“I thought he played well and, hopefully, with more minutes under his belt, he can do even better.”

Leigh has now made 10 appearances for the Alex, and will be hoping to keep his place at Gillingham on Good Friday.

He said: “I was happy with my performance. I had to wait, but I was ready for when I was called upon and I felt good out there.

“I feel like we can push for those automatic spots and we have to apply ourselves. I’ve been waiting to show the fans what I can do and I have to keep going now.”