THE next top star to come off the Crewe Alexandra production line is expected to be the young striker Dean Ashton.

The teenager is sure to prove a handful for Burnley's own bright young star, French defender Arthur Gnohere.

It was as a substitute against the Clarets last season that Ashton stuck his first league goal and he has hardly looked back.

Big and strong he sprang to national prominence in the club's FA Cup run this season with two goals in the fourth round win at Rotherham, one a spectacular left foot drive from long range.

But his name had already gone on to the wanted list of a host of Premier League clubs who have been monitoring his progress under the shrewd guidance of manager Dario Gradi.

Playing for his country remains a dream for Gnohere who continues to make an impression at Turf Moor, not least on manager Stan Ternent who was kissed by the big defender after he netted a late equaliser against Forest last weekend.

But while the manager has been delighted with much of the 23-year-old's play this season he knows he has to improve in terms of consistency.

ARTHUR GNOHERE

Position: Defender

Nationality: French

Signed: 1/8/2001

Fee: Free

League appearances: 24 (3)

Goals: 3

Cup appearances: 3(0)

Goals: 0

DEAN ASHTON

Position: Striker

Nationality: English

Signed: 1/8/2000

Fee: From trainee

League appearances: 31(10)

Goals: 12

Cup appearances: 3(3)

Goals: 2