NEW Crewe Alexandra manager Dave Artell says it is time for everyone at the club to start pulling in the right direction.

Former club captain Artell, who made 82 appearances for The Alex as a player, was appointed to replace Steve Davis at Gresty Road on Sunday.

The decision to part company with Davis, who had been the club’s manager for five years, came following Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to Mansfield Town, their seventh game without a victory.

Artell says he is looking to instil some belief back into the playing squad, starting with Saturday’s home game against Luton Town, kick off 3pm.

“I know what it takes to win. I have had promotions in my career and played at a good level,” he said.

“If you know how to win then that is 80 per cent of what you need.

“One of my great strengths is that I’m like a magpie. I like to absorb knowledge and use it.

“Now we have to instil that belief back into the players, because we all know they are talented and have the ability.

“Everyone has a part to play. The fans have a massive part to play.

“If the mixture is right between us all then we can start climbing the table.”

With The Alex sitting 18th in the League Two table, they are only seven points clear of the relegation places having hoped to challenge for a play-off place.

The decision was made to give Artell, who represented Gibraltar at international level, his first job in management.

He has spent this season playing for Evo-Stik First Division North outfit Droylsden and says he jumped at the chance of returning to The Alex.

“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 played 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.”

Artell has appointed another former Alex man as his assistant in the shape of Kenny Lunt, with Davis’ assistant James Collins being retained as Head of Coaching.

Neil Baker also stays on as Head of Recruitment, while Alex Morris has been promoted to the role of first team coach.

Meanwhile, Artell has been handed a boost with the news that on-loan Chelsea winger Alex Kiwomya will remain at the club until the end of the season.

The initial loan was due to expire on Monday, but an agreement has been struck to allow the 20-year-old to remain at Gresty Road.