AMIR Khan took a step nearer his Olympic dream with a performance described as "the best seen by an England boxer in the past 26 years".

The Bolton boxing sensation has his heart set on an Olympic spot in Athens later this year, and, after hearing that the ABA had relaxed the rules to allow him to compete, took a major step towards realising his ambition, by representing England in his first bouts at senior level, in the adidas Box Cup in Germany.

Not only did Amir handle the step up to the senior stage but he won all three of his bouts against German opponents, and did it in style.

He easily won two of his fights on points, but the most impressive was against Martin Dresben, ranked third lightweight in the world, who he defeated in the third round when the bout was automatically stopped because Amir was 20 points ahead.

England team manger Peter Hayes admitted he was gobsmacked by the Heaton boxer's display.

He said: "It was amazing the way he performed. I have never seen a better performance by an England boxer in 26 years.

"He has fantastic potential. He has just turned 17 but the way he dealt with such an experienced boxer was incredible.

"The German is a good skilful boxer, but Amir tore him apart. Before the bout I was just looking for him to go four rounds for the first time."

Amir, who took the prize as the best of the England boxers, has to qualify for one of only eight European places available, if he is to make it to the Olympics.

The Bury Boxing Club member has three chances - the European Championships next month, followed by two further competitions. The four medallists at the Europeans will be selected along with the finalists from the other two events.

Amir will find out later this week which of the competitions the selectors have chosen for him.