CREWE boss Dave Artell said he was impressed with a generous welcome from Steve Bruce during a pre-season visit to Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate near York.

The Alex went down to a 3-0 defeat yesterday against Bruce's Newcastle United in their latest warm-up game. While the result may have been academic, Artell said the reception he and his players received in Yorkshire will live in the memory.

"We couldn't have been made to feel more welcome by an unbelievable manager and fantastic fellow. Steve has got a good team and it was a good test for us," said the Crewe manager.

New frontline signing Offrnade Zanzala twice went close for Crewe in the opening half before Andy Carroll struck for the Toon before the the interval.

A strong Newcastle side hit the woodwork three times after the break, two of the strikes coming from freekicks delivered by sub Jonjo Shelvey. Christian Atsu and Federico Fernandrez completed the scoring, but Artell, who gave first year scholar Connor Salisbury a late run-out, added: "We could have scored a couple of goals, but it was not about the result.

"It was a great day, great surroundings and great people."

Crewe play a Wolves under-23s side at Lilleshall today and Bolton at the University of Bolton Stadium on Friday. Their 2020/21 season starts behind closed doors when Lincoln are the visitors at Gresty Road for a Caraboa Cup first round tie on Saturday, September 5.