DAVE Artell says the next few days leading up to the transfer deadline could be crucial for Crewe who slumped to their fourth defeat of the campaign at Charlton.

First-half goals from Diallang Jaiyesimi (36) and Jayden Stockley (41) left the Alex trailing at the break. And while there was a second-half improvement and Chris Porter had a header cleared off the line the lack of goal threat was palpable and must surely be an area that needs addressing by Tuesday.

With just a point from their opening five league games Crewe have slumped to second from bottom of the League One table and will have to wait to September 11 and a trip to third-bottom Shrewsbury to address their concerning opening form with next Saturday's home game against Morecambe off because of international call-ups.

Charlton, for whom Charlie Kirk started against his former club, could have won by more. Jaiyesimi's header and a counter attack finished off by Stockley rounding Will Jaaskelainen left Crewe with a mountain to climb.

Chis Gunter and Connor Washington were close to adding to the Addicks' tally after the break.

Artell said: "Our decision making cost us the game. When you make more poor decision at both ends of the pitch you get punished. It was poor for large parts in critical areas

"The performance was improved on last week and we have got better, but we've still got plenty of work to do.

"The next three days will be crucial for us and will go a long way to helping us. And over the next two weeks we'll get some work into them. We're a work in progress and we've got to get there."