Boss Paul Doswell has tipped Tommy Kavanagh to follow Stefan Payne into the professional ranks from Gander Green Lane.

The youth and reserve team graduate scored from a free-kick on Saturday as United held League Two AFC Wimbledon new boys 1-1.

Ex-Croydon FC youngster Payne signed for Premier League Fulham in 2009 - after a prolific start to the season at Sutton - before switching to Gillingham, where he made 16 appearances last term.

Kavanagh has established himself in Doswell's first team squad in contrast to some - such as Jerson Dos Santos, Billy Dunn and Zak Graham - who have emerged from the Sutton youth ranks in the recent past.

And the United chief reckons it is the youngster's attitude - coupled with his ability - that sets him out as a future pro prospect.

"We've had Tom around the first team for the last two years and last year he played for us more than he had before," he said.

"He is in the 16-man squad in his own right and is pushing the likes of Tom Davis for a regular starting slot.

"He is the first local player that not only has ability, but he has got a fantastic will to learn. He listens and he is growing all the time as a player.

"If he can continue to progress as has done - which I see no reason why he can't - then he could be the next player to move on from here in to League football."

Sutton followed up Saturday's draw with the Dons by thumping Ryman Premier League Kingstonian 5-1 on Tuesday night.

Defender Alan Bray marked his comeback with the opening goal before Leroy Griffiths, Ramone McCree an own goal and one from new boy Neil Jenkins wrapped up the scoring.

However, Doswell is refusing to get carried away with the explosive start his men have made ahead of their return to the Blue Square South.

"I've had pre-seasons where we've won every game and then done badly in the league, so you can't read too much in it," he added.

"It is a case of making sure the players know in their own mind that they are fit and ready for the season and organised."

And Doswell is sure his men, who host Carshalton Athletic at the weekend, are in a happy place.

He said: "It is clear the squad has kept themselves in good shape.

"People ask where the goals will come from this year and I think you can already see we have threats all over the park."