Anthony Crolla keen to defend title at Old Trafford

Anthony Crolla has admitted that he would be thrilled to be given the opportunity to defend his WBA lightweight title at Old Trafford.

Crolla capped a remarkable year on Saturday as he stopped Darleys Perez in the fifth round to clinch the belt just 11 months after suffering a fractured skull and broken leg attempting to apprehend burglars last December.

His first defence could come against British rival Kevin Mitchell, and the Manchester United supporter is hopeful that the proposed bout will take place at the club's ground.

"I could never imagine fighting at Old Trafford," the 29-year-old told BBC Sport.

"Kevin is a great lad and has got great support. It's something I'd jump at given the opportunity. It's something I wouldn't have dreamt about a year ago."

Mitchell will become the mandatory WBA challenger if he beats Ismael Barroso on December 12.