Stafford Rangers sign Harry Clayton

Stafford Rangers could hand a debut to Harry Clayton in Saturday's derby at Rushall after signing the teenage striker on loan from Football League club Crewe.

The 17-year-old has become the second player to make the move from Gresty Road to Marston Road this season, after defender Andy White's loan spell earlier in the campaign.

Clayton has already been farmed out to Market Drayton Town but was in red-hot form for the Evo-Stik League Division One South outfit, scoring nine times before returning to his parent club.

Now the League Two side have allowed Clayton to continue his footballing education a tier above in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League, with his loan set to run until January 11.

Rangers boss Greg Clowes said: "Harry is a first-year pro, who is very quick and direct and knows where the back of the net is. We are looking forward to taking him on board."

Clowes is also still keen to take White back on loan from Crewe, despite bringing Jon Patrick back to Rangers to occupy the left-back slot.

A knee injury curtailed White's first spell at Marston Road in the second month of his move, which was extended after the first month.

The 19-year-old is approaching fitness again but Clowes is against pushing through the move until the player is ready.

He said: "Andy's not fit yet, he's back training but he is not doing physical work. He's always been keen to come, I had him for six months last season so he knows me and I know him.

"What we have said is that when he is fit and Crewe are happy with it, we want him back here.

"It will be sooner rather than later but he's got to be right first, although there's very positive vibes from both ends."