CHRIS Casper believes Tom Kennedy has the tools to be the best full back in League Two.

The 21-year-old defender has been in a rich vein of form of late, prompting speculation that League One Crewe Alexandra may be vying for his signature.

The news came as little surprise to the Bury boss, who backed his man to keep producing the kind of displays which have attracted the attention of other clubs.

"It doesn't surprise me the way he has been performing," admitted Casper when quizzed on Crewe's reported interest.

"He wasn't at his best earlier in the season but he has worked at his fitness and now he is confident.

"He is potentially the best left back in the division, and even the divisions above - he has got everything you would want.

"He is maturing into a top class left back, so it doesn't surprise me that there are people after him."

Crewe assistant Neil Baker told the Bury Times that Kennedy had been watched in recent weeks, but refused to confirm their long term interest.

The Railwaymen are known to be in the market for a left-sided defender but Kennedy's contractual obligation to the Shakers would prevent any movement until January at the earliest.

Kennedy signed a new one-year deal in May after three years in the first team.