Crewe youngsters confident despite defeats - Lee Bell

Lee Bell started his career at Crewe and returned to Gresty Road in 2010

Lee Bell has said Crewe's young players remain confident, despite starting the season with four straight defeats.

The Alex are one of five teams in the Football League yet to register a point this season and were also knocked out of the Carling Cup by Preston.

"You give them little pep talks every now and again but they just get on with it," Bell told BBC Radio Stoke.

"They don't get down for very long and they'll be looking forward to a good game against Shrewsbury on Saturday."

Bell, 27, is the third-oldest player in the Crewe squad and one of 12 academy graduates to have featured for the Alex this season.

Crewe, who finished 10th in League Two last season, lost 2-1 at home to leaders Rotherham on Tuesday.

However, Bell believes the side can take positives from their performance.

"They're top of the league and as far as I'm concerned we outplayed them," he said. "I'm sure the luck will turn and when it does we'll pick some results up."

BBC Radio Stoke will have live commentary of Shrewsbury v Crewe on 1503MW and DAB digital radio from 1500 BST on 20 August.