Crewe insisted “all relevant and appropriate procedures have been followed” after notifying the Football Association of a safeguarding issue which prompted the suspension of a staff member.

The Guardian on Wednesday reported that Carl Everall, a Crewe academy coach since 2013 and now the League Two club’s head of foundation, had been suspended pending an investigation.

A Crewe spokesperson said: “You will appreciate that it is not appropriate for us to comment in detail at this time.

“I can, however, confirm that all relevant and appropriate procedures have been followed.”

An FA spokesperson said: “This is a safeguarding and police matter so therefore the FA is not in a position to comment.”

A LinkedIn profile purporting to be Everall shows he joined Crewe in May 2013 and was appointed head of foundation in August 2017.

Press Association Sport has attempted to contact Everall for comment.