FORMER Tottenham Hotspur prospect Cameron Lancaster could be the man to replace Sunderland-bound Max Clayton.

The 21-year striker is currently training at Reaseheath as Alex supporters eagerly await news of summer signings.

Lancaster was highly touted after emerging through the London side’s academy but injuries halted his progress.

Released last month, the 6ft forward made just one Premier League appearance back in 2012 following a short spell on loan at Dagenham & Redbridge.

Lancaster could be the player to replace Clayton who looks on the verge of joining Sunderland. Crewe will want an initial £1 million with further add-ons if the Black Cats decide to take the 19-year-old.

“They have spoken to us and as he is out of contract, he can go where he likes,” explained boss Steve Davis. “It is a type of trial and if he impresses, I’m sure they will come back with an offer.

“We will be due compensation and hopefully something can be decided between the two clubs if it comes to that.”

Despite losing both Clayton and Chuks Aneke, the Alex still produced goals when they won 4-1 at Nantwich Town.

Following last Friday’s 4-0 win at Norton, Brad Inman, Billy Waters and Mathias Pogba set the tone in the first-half. Substitute Callum Saunders added another in front of a bumper 1,224 crowd.

“Our goals were good, we got in the gaps well and could have had a few more,” added Davis. “We want the players to be brave and bold in their play.

“There was good evidence of that so we have to keep it going. Obviously we’re going to come up against better teams so we have to do it against them as well.

“We’re making some progress as we head towards the first competitive game, but I’m still not totally satisfied. It takes a lot to satisfy me and that is just the standards I set and the demands I place on the players.”

Trialists Femi Orenuga and Adam Reed have left although Lancaster and further new faces are expected to get run-outs at Leek tomorrow (Friday) and Chester on Saturday.