As the Saddlers prepare for their Boxing Day clash with Port Vale, First-Team Coach Ian Sharps has spoken to the local press and praised the club's youth set-up, which he believes is producing plenty of talent to go alongside the names that have already made the jump to the first-team.
Speaking via the Express & Star, Ian, who recently joined the club from Vanarama National League side Chester, said; "The young players in the youth team have really impressed me. A few of them have been brought up to train alongside the pros and they haven’t looked out of place which is really pleasing.
"There is a real pathway in the club and young players can see that, if they work hard, they too can play for the first team. If you look at Kory, Ama, Matt, Kins, Reece and Rico Henry, who has now left. This club have developed a lot of talent over the past few years. That is the way it should be and long may it continue.
"I think lads coming in now will be looking up to Matt and Reece and Kieron and seeing them as role models. They can see what they need to aim for and that is added responsibility for Matty, Reece and Kieron.
"I think there are many more lads who are going to come through the system. I’ve watched a few youth games now and every time I’ve been hugely impressed."