New Walsall head of youth Dean Smith admits he is under pressure to produce the Saddlers stars of the future.

The 38-year-old has replaced Mick Halsall in the club’s youth system and is charged with continuing their successful production line.

The former captain, who played 165 times for the club, scoring twice before leaving for Hereford in 1994, knows the legacy Halsall leaves means he has to generate players.

Smith said: ““Mick has done a fantastic job here. My job is not to come in and change everything. It’s to make improvements where I can.

“The legacy of the football club is here, they’ve got a history of producing and I’ve got to continue the cog and make sure it keeps turning.

“People say when you go into youth team football it’s a safe job. I don’t think any job is a safe one.

“There’s always pressure in every role, but obviously not as much pressure of having to win each week which is the first team pressure.

“My pressure is to produce players over a period of time.

“I’m a coach first and foremost and I love coaching, so my job is to help further develop the lads and try and provide Chris with some players.”

Smith started his career with the Saddlers in 1987 and knows what it takes to become a professional.

He said: “I’ve sat in the chair where they are. It may have been 22 years ago, but I’ve been there and I know what they’re feeling.

“They’re talented players because that’s why they’re in the scholarship programme, but that doesn’t get you success.

“Professional contracts are earned by dedication and hard work.”