STEVE Davis has told disgruntled Alex supporters to lay off contract rebel Max Clayton.

The 19-year-old was jeered in last Saturday’s dire 3-0 defeat at home to Walsall – sparking furious debate across social networking sites.

While some fans were shocked, others felt the treatment was warranted as the striker and his advisers look set to engineer a move away from the Alexandra Stadium in 2014.

Clayton has refused to sign a new contract despite the club investing in his development over the past decade.

“I understand the frustrations,” said Davis.

“Boo him if he doesn’t try by all means but just as he enters the pitch is wrong.

“If they want to boo someone they should boo me.

“I’ll take that away from him. Let the players work hard and turn things around.

“The situation isn’t ideal for us, he’s had some bad advice and I don’t agree with the decision he’s made.

“But that’s his prerogative and his agent’s prerogative not to accept a new deal.

“I’m fully in support of him because I want him to score goals for Crewe and it does affect him along with the other players.”

Davis laughed off recent speculation that Fulham made a late £50,000 bid for the striker during the transfer window.

“I think that was just the agent doing his job,” he added.

“There’s been nothing concrete from anybody.”

Clayton scored twice in Monday’s 5-0 under 21s win over Sheffield United, prompting thoughts of a recall for Saturday’s trip to Oldham.

Byron Moore also pressed his claim for a first team spot with a goal while trialist Nathan Ellington bagged a brace.

Ryan Colclough, hip, could also return although Gregor Robertson is out with a knee problem.

Davis admits Crewe need a result against the Latics, who have suffered three successive defeats.

“The last game hurt the staff, players and supporters and now we’re looking for a response,” he continued.

“We have to keep going and not losing heart is important.

“We need a result and last season we got one at Oldham by digging deep and competing.

“Sometimes when confidence isn’t high, pretty football has to be put to one side and if that’s what it takes – so be it.”