All change at Crewe

How Crewes summer signings have changed things round at the Alex

Over the last ten years Dario Gradi’s side have always been known for attractive attacking display. Although this has made for some exciting football at Gresty Road Gradi’s apparent disinterest and stubbornness in not improving the sides defensive records has been at best frustrating and at worst infuriating to the Alex faithful.

However a fresh season brings fresh optimism amongst fans up and down the country not least at Gresty Road. There is no doubt that The Railwaymen have made improvements this campaign, fans have been screaming for Gradi to improve the key positions of centre midfield and defence which are in essence the heart of the team. After losing players through transfer and retirement Gradi has never really replaced the players lost during the clubs halcyon Championship years.

There have been many prospective incumbents to the nucleus of the side but have often flattered to deceive. However, this season Crewe have more fight, more determination, more steely grit which has not gone unnoticed and is greatly appreciated by the Alex fans. This is in no small part to the new nucleus of the team in new summer signing David Artell and Lee Bell.

David Artell was a first choice member of the Morcombe side last season and Morcombes loss appears to be Crewe’s gain. Arguably the best performer during the early round of matches this season, the 6ft 3 central defender adds a commanding presence to the back line. A proper ‘old fashioned no-nonsense’ defender Artell, although slow on occasions, has proved to be a fantastic header of the football at both ends of the pitch. Clearing the lines at the back and also chipping in with two goals from set plays already this season.

Former Alex academy graduate Lee Bell is vastly improved from his former days at Gresty Road. Bell returned to Crewe on a free transfer from Macclesfield and there is now a notable maturity to his game. The combative midfield general adds a snappy bight to the centre of the park giving opposition players little time on the ball. Not afraid to put his foot in and a terrific passer of the ball Bell is an early contender for player of the season this term.

So what next for Crewe? Which areas still need improving? Sign up to the forum and have your say now!!!