Callum Saunders: Crewe Alexandra striker tipped to emerge from dad Dean's shadow

Callum Saunders has been with Crewe since he was six-years-old

Striker Callum Saunders has a big burden to carry being the son of a famous father but has the talent to forge a successful career, says Crewe Alexandra assistant boss James Collins.

Saunders, 20, is the son of former Liverpool, Aston Villa and Wales striker Dean and signed his first professional deal at Crewe in 2014.

"He's a late developer," Collins, 37, told BBC Radio Stoke.

"But he threatens the back four and gives us a threat - he's a goalscorer."

Saunders, in his second full season with the League One Alex, scored his second league goal - an injury-time header - as already-relegated Crewe grabbed a late point in their 1-1 draw against Colchester.

Collins says Saunders now must build on that from now on and try and emerge from the shadow of his father who scored 206 goals in his league and international career.

"It's good to see him score that type of goal - leaping in box and scoring with a header - he was always good in the air coming through the academy," Collins said.

"He's still got a bit to come physically but now's the time to do it, he's got to have a good year next year - it's a big one for him.

"It's a difficult burden to have on your back when your dad's scored as many goals as he did, it's a big pressure."

James Collins played for Crewe between 1997 and 2001