Walsall defender Chris Westwood today backed teenager Ishmel Demontagnac to be a future star.

Demontagnac looks set to be offered a new Saddlers contract in the summer and Westwood believes the fiery winger is close to forcing his way into manager Richard Money’s first team plans.

The 18-year-old lit up Saturday’s drab defeat by Bury with an exciting second-half performance.

“I suppose with us securing promotion it was probably the right time to let him loose,” said Westwood.

Read the full story in the Express & Star.

Walsall defender Chris Westwood today backed teenager Ishmel Demontagnac to be a future star.

Demontagnac looks set to be offered a new Saddlers contract in the summer and Westwood believes the fiery winger is close to forcing his way into manager Richard Money’s first team plans.

The 18-year-old lit up Saturday’s drab defeat by Bury with an exciting second-half performance.

“I suppose with us securing promotion it was probably the right time to let him loose,” said Westwood.

“He is a young lad who can be a bit hot-headed, but he showed in this game what he can do when he plays.

“He’s got pace, he’s got tricks and he’s very direct.

“He also draws the opposition winger back to help defend against him and that can give your full-back more space to play in. He is definitely one for the future.”

Demontagnac’s contract is due to expire at the end of the season and his future had seemed in the balance because of his temperament.

But Money has dropped his broadest hint yet on Demontagnac’s future.

“He is out of contract at the end of the season and we will have to speak to him, but I would think he will form part of our plans for next season,” he said.