Former Burnley striker Payton predicts bright future for Colne hotshot

The one-time Turf Moor favourite, who picked up the Goldon Boot award after scoring 27 goals in Burnley’s 1999-2000 promotion-winning campaign, recently parted company with Colne, citing a desire to find a new challenge, after helping guide the club to fourth in the North West Counties Premier Division.

But Payton felt fortunate in being able to help develop the league’s most potent hitman, claiming the 21-year-old, who has hit 25 goals this term, could make an impact on a bigger stage.

“I think he’s got a lot of potential,” Payton said.

“You never know if they can make the step up, but I believe he’s capable of producing the goods. He’s scored some great goals, he’s two-footed which is quite unusual at this standard, he’s got great vision and he can see an opening.

“He’s got a bit of pace, a lot of energy and an eye for goal.”

Payton added: “Jason is attracting interest from some big clubs and it’s not surprising.

“He’s the leading scorer in the NWC Premier Division with 25 goals so he’s bound to have admirers. I remember him joining in pre-season, I started working with him, and he just started scoring goals.

“He’s a very good player and he’s got a bright future ahead of him.”

High-flying Colne travel to Valerie Park tomorrow, weather permitting, to face AFC Liverpool, kick-off 3 p.m.