Surman returns to scene of debut
Wolves midfielder Andrew Surman returns to the scene of his League debut grateful for his introduction to the pressures of professional football.
The former England under-21 international made his debut on loan to the Saddlers three and a half years ago, when an impressed Paul Merson immediately marked him out for future stardom.
He's now back as a 22-year-old Premier League player facing the biggest test of his career, as the club continues top-flight preparations with Surman ever grateful to Walsall's role in his development.
The signing from Southampton said: "Walsall were my first loan club and gave me my senior debut in the Football League. They are a club which will always be very close to me.
"I think for any player the club where you make your debut is one you always remember, so it will be nice to go back tonight.
"Playing at first-team level for the first time gives you a taste of what it is like and the belief that you can do it.
"At academy level you're always thinking about the future, but when you get into a first team you have to learn quickly.
"With points to play for the pressure is on. The loan move to Walsall was very good for me in that respect."
Surman takes his place in one of two line-ups sorted out by manager Mick McCarthy, with another XI heading for a second friendly at Port Vale tomorrow night.
It underlines the competition for places building up now that last season's promotion-winning squad have been joined by six newcomers, but Surman insists these early operations are all about fitness.
He said: "Pre-season is all about moving up to the next level each time and we'll probably be getting more time out there over the next few games.
"We know just how fit we need to be, because of that added increase in quality in the Premier League. Everyone knows the gaffer is always watching."
