DAVE Artell says a Papa John's Trophy clash with Shrewsbury will be like a "free hit" after Crewe secured early qualification in the competition.

The Alex have already beaten Bolton (3-2) and Newcastle Under-21s (1-0) in their previous Group C games. They were guaranteed a place in the knock-out stages when tomorrow night's visitors beat Bolton last month to also make it two wins from two games and secure their qualification.

So the Gresty Road fixture offers both Crewe boss Artell and his Salop counterpart Sam Ricketts the opportunity to make wholesale changes with only the rank of seeding in the second round left to be decided.

"It's a free hit tomorrow and I am sure Shrewsbury will be making as many changes as they can," said Artell. "It's an opportunity for the fringe players to stake their claim. wining games breeds confidence and we have got to take the opportunities as they come your way."

Among his changes Artell is sure to be contemplating using young defender Travis Johnson again.

The 20-year-old started both of Crewe's previous games in the competition and was an impressive performer when he replaced injured skipper Perry Ng in the closing stages of Saturday's FA Cup first round win at Bolton (3-2).

Ng is suffering no lasting effects, but should be among those rested tomorrow when with several players currently in the treatment room options on the bench may be limited.

Striker Chris Porter pulled up with an injury in the warm-up at Bolton on Saturday, while young midfielder Josh Lundstram has been ruled out for a longer period with an ankle stress fracture.

Luke Murphy is unlikely to involved too as the experienced midfielder has been feeling the effects of a groin injury in the past week.

Meanwhile, summer signing Donervon Daniels - who last featured against Wigan on October 10 - is closing in on a return after being sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Tomorrow's game kicks off at 6pm.