CREWE Alexander is the latest league club to be alerted to the form of Chippenham striker James Constable.

Crewe scout Eric Evans was in the stands for the Solihull game on Saturday after being told to keep an eye on the youngster, whose wages are being paid by the Gazette this season.

Evans said: "As there was not a league game for Crewe I was told to come here and have a look at both teams but I was under instructions to watch Constable in particular."

The striker, 20, has scored six league goals already this season and is 11th in the Southern Premier League goal scoring charts.

The striker did not have a decent shot on goal until towards the end of the game after the scout has left.

But Evans was impressed with what he saw and would like to watch Constable again.

He said: "He was a bit quiet for certain periods but played his part. He is definitely worth another look."

A Crewe spokesman said: "Our scout Eric Evans was sent to watch the game by assistant manager Neil Baker, as part of our extensive scouting network which covers non-league football across the country.''

Constable has also been watched by scouts from Swindon Town, Bristol City, Bristol Rovers and Northampton this season.

None of them have followed up their interest with a bid but he is thought to be a long-term target.

Manager Steve White would not want to lose Constable and rates the striker highly.

He said: "He has had an excellent start to his career but he still has a lot to learn and I do not think we will see the best of James Constable for at least a year.

"His play is improving and he is always a threat. He has a lot to do but is a great prospect, it is no surprise to me that teams have been watching him."

The striker did not know that a scout was in the stands.

He said: "That is how I prefer it; it can affect your game if you know there is a scout watching you.

"I'd rather that they did not tell you so that you can relax and get on with your game.

"It is a great feeling knowing that you have been watched.

"It is every footballer's dream to play in the league; it would be the best thing that happened if they came in for me. I would jump at the chance to play for any league club."