On-loan Sheffield United defender Ryan Cresswell believes Macclesfield are ready to hand out "a good thumping".The 20-year-old defender has made five appearances since arriving at Moss Rose in the January transfer window and feels the Silkmen, who are just five points clear of the drop-zone, should have no problem ensuring their safety.

He told the club's official website: "From a team point of view I think realistically we should set our sights on mid-table.

"We need to get away from the bottom pretty quickly. But I reckon it won't be too long before we give someone a good thumping as I certainly think we are playing well enough to do so."

Cresswell is also under pressure to prove his quality following disappointing loan spells with Morecambe and Rotherham earlier this season and is eager to prove his worth.

He added: "I am out of contract in the summer and I know I am in the shop window. But it is just great to be getting regular football and I am appreciative of the opportunity I have been given."

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