Southend United assistant manager David Crown was one of a host of Football League representatives at Canvey Island's Park Lane ground to see non-league soccer's hottest striking property in action.

But they all had something of a wasted journey as 22-year-old Craig McAllister, who has knocked in 24 goals for last night's Ryman Premier visitors Basingstoke Town, was kept out of action due to a tight hamstring.

Craig McAllister

McAllister has recently returned to the Hampshire club from a trial spell with First Division QPR.

But Blues and Luton are among other clubs interested in snapping up the services of a player who has gone down a storm at Basingstoke since joining them from Jewson Wessex League Eastleigh last March.

Crown, who knows a thing or two about finishing skills following his own great playing career up front at Roots Hall, said that he had watched McAllister twice previously.

"He's 6ft 1in tall, has a good physique, is outstanding in the air and scores goals -- when a player with those qualities of his age comes along clubs at our level have to be interested," said Crown

McAllister admitted to being frustrated by not being involved in last night's action.

"I've played four games in little over a week with Basingstoke and the two reserve matches with QPR and one of my hamstrings has tightened," he said.

"Obviously I'd be interested in having a go at the Football League if the right offer comes along -- who wouldn't be.

"I enjoyed my spell at QPR and now Basingstoke are waiting to see if they or any other club comes in for me."

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Published Wednesday, February 5, 2003

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