Droylsden wish defender David Artell well after he leaves to take charge of Crewe Alexandra

DROYLSDEN have wished defender David Artell well after he stepped up to become first team manager at League Two side Crewe Alexandra.

Artell, 36, is a former Crewe captain and has taken over at Gresty Road following the sacking of boss Steve Davis with the club struggling at the wrong end of the table.

The centre-half was turning out for Droylsden in the Evo-Stik NPL North but has now left the Bloods to take up his new full-time position.

Artell, a Gibraltar international, had only joined Droylsden at the end of November from Evo-Stik NPL South side Kidsgrove Athletic, who he had signed for in the summer.

The ex-Wrexham defender made a big impression in his brief time at the Butcher’s Arms and the club have lauded his impact after he agreed to step up from academy coach to take charge of the Crewe first team.

Droylsden secretary Bryan Pace said: “Our centre-half David Artell has left us to be first team manager at Crewe. He was the academy manager but after they sacked Steve Davis he was offered the position which is a great opportunity for him.

“Congratulations to David, his stay at the Bloods was brief and everyone at the club wishes him well.”

Artell added: “I had no hesitation in accepting the job. Of course, it is human nature to evaluate things but I knew it was a great opportunity.

“I want to take the chance with both hands and I have enough belief in myself and those around me to make sure we make it work.

“I then went on to play International football and faced the world champions, so that isn’t a bad playing career. Many would have taken that as a playing career and now I want to be successful in my management career.”