MAX Clayton is hungry for more after netting his first Wanderers goal.

Fresh from scoring on his full debut in Friday night’s thrilling 3-1 win against Wigan Athletic, the 20-year-old now has his sights fixed on becoming a regular feature in Neil Lennon’s side.

Before breaking his ankle last November Clayton had been linked with some of the biggest clubs in the land.

He is now determined to prove he is back to his best with Bolton and could not hide his delight at getting off the mark in the derby.

“The last few months have been a rollercoaster for me but it’s been worth it in the end,” he said. “I’m here now and we’re doing well as a team.

“To play in the Championship, whether it’s starting or coming off the bench, is massive for me.

“To score a goal on my first start, it’s hard to find the words, it’s unbelievable. It’s the best feeling ever. I can’t wait to go again.”

Clayton missed five months of last season after snapping his ankle playing against Wycombe in League One and whilst recovering made the decision to leave Crewe at the end of his contract.

A lengthy spell in limbo followed as his former club haggled over a hefty compensation deal, during which time deals with Sunderland and Everton fell by the wayside.

Clayton even contemplated a move abroad with Danish club FC Midtjylland after English clubs were put off by the figures involved.

“I did end up there,” the striker said with a shake of the head. “That wasn’t a nice trip. It’s a funny place but I met some nice people. I don’t want to go back, though.”

But after ex-Wanderers boss Dougie Freedman struck a deal to bring him back to England in mid-September, Clayton set his sights on rebuilding his promising career at the Macron.

“The contract stuff was all a bit dramatic,” he said. “Crewe were brilliant for me from start to finish but I just felt it was time to go.

“When you’ve been at a club for so long they are bound to want some compensation, I certainly don’t blame them for it. But I was really glad when they eventually agreed with Bolton because it has turned out to be a perfect move.

“Doing my ankle was traumatic but it was a clean break so I knew I could come back just as strong.

“Since I have been here I’ve done everything they’ve asked of me, put some weight on, got fitter, stronger and the staff have been so good, I hope they are taking me on to the next level.”