Academy trio can inspire others in Walsall's youth system - Darren Byfield
Darren Byfield believes academy trio Stan Straw, McLloyd Oben and Paul Makavore can serve as an inspiration for others in Walsall's youth system.
Paul Makavore was handed his debut from the bench during the Saddlers' goalless draw against Chelsea under-21s at Bescot in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday night.
The teenager had previously been an unused substitute in the opening two games, while fellow academy scholars Straw and Oben have featured in all three games in the EFL Trophy this term.
17-year-old Straw stepped up to the spot and confidently converted to help Walsall emerge with an extra point in a 4-2 shoot-out victory.
Byfield insists the club will continue to create a pathway for young players and that they can be role models for the next clutch of youngsters in the system.
"It's testament to the way they train, the way they work hard, play their games and apply themselves," Walsall's first team coach said.
"The rest of the youth team boys will look, and think: 'We can get a chance, if we keep working hard and keep performing.
