CREWE Alexandra have parted company with manager Steve Davis, with former club captain David Artell brought in to replace him.

The club made the decision to end Davis’ five-year reign as boss following Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Mansfield Town.

Goals from Yoann Arquin, Ben Whiteman and Rhys Bennett condemned The Alex to 18th place in League Two in a run in which they have picked up just two points in their last seven games.

Artell, who has been playing in the Evo-Stik First Division North for Droylsden this season, made 82 appearances for Crewe and led them to promotion to League One in 2012.