Walsall manager Dean Smith has spoken to the local press ahead of tomorrow's Sky Bet League One clash with Barnsley, and has discussed young left-back Rico Henry's first team debut, which took place during the Saddlers' midweek Johnstone's Paint Trophy victory over Tranmere Rovers.
Speaking to the Express & Star, Smith said; "I told him about 4 o'clock on Tuesday that he was in the team. It was a case of ‘phone your mom and dad and get them up here quickly because you’re starting’.
“He didn't expect to. He thought he was going to be a sub but it took me back to 1989 and my debut. I was 17 as well – but a bit older than him. He only turned 17 in July but he’s a fantastic prospect for this football club. He really excites me whenever I see him play.
“We just knew it wouldn't faze him. He stepped up and trained with the first team when he was 16 years old and you could tell from the moment he joined in it wasn't going to be a problem.
“Tuesday would have been a tough ask for anyone but nothing fazes him. It was a tough decision because I knew Taylor was missing, but Rico has been outstanding for the last month or two and it’s only right that people who are playing well get in the team, whatever age you are.
“It’s tough on Mal because he was the obvious choice to go back in there. But I just felt Rico’s form had been outstanding and I knew nothing would faze him.”
SOURCE EXPRESS & STAR