Sunday league footballer Jimmy McCarthy is confident he can make the transition from pub player to professional if he is offered a contract by Crewe.

McCarthy played for Leek-based team the Blue Mugge last season and was handed a trial at Crewe after scoring twice for the Alex in a practice match.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "I've given up my job as an insurance salesman, worked hard and hopefully I can push on.

"It's fantastic, coming from Sunday football to these great facilities."

McCarthy, who was on Stoke City's books as a youngster, has played for several non-league clubs in the Staffordshire area and spent last season playing for Warrington Town in Unibond Division One North.

He was spotted playing for the Blue Mugge by Crewe coach Neil Baker, whose sons play for the same team, and was invited to train with the Alex.

The striker is likely to get his chance in one of Crewe's pre-season friendlies against either Quorn or his former club Kidsgrove.

"The matches are big ones and I can't wait to get going," added McCarthy. "I just want to get on the pitch and play some good football."

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