Walsall's Jamie Paterson to get protection

Walsall will handle Jamie Paterson with care after the striker emerged from the shadows with a bang.

The 18-year-old impressed on his full debut despite Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Colchester after being handed his chance because of a spate of injuries.

He made up a youthful right side with 19-year-old Darryl Westlake and pushed the man of the match close for the award.

But boss Chris Hutchings insisted the Saddlers' won't pile the pressure on Paterson because he is still young.

"We've got to treat him carefully and not expect too much too soon but he's got a freedom and a quality a lot of players don't have," he said.

"I thought it was a good full debut. I was pleased with his contribution, it was a bit full on for him because it was a bit tactical and we had to change things with the way Colchester played.

"It was a learning curve for him but overall it was a good contribution. He looked very lively and elusive and we know he can cause teams problems. He sees a pass well.

"If he is performing well then he'll keep the shirt and it's up to him to make sure he keeps performing. Whether one or two get back from injury and put him under pressure we'll see."

Despite Paterson's performance the Saddlers slipped to their third successive defeat but Hutchings said it's business as usual this week and they were unlucky not to grab a point.

"We've got to keep working as we are. It's a fine dividing line and it was a game we could have got a point out of and they were fortunate to go home with three," he said.

"It was a tight game and that's what happens, it swings in the balance one way and then the other.

"If Darren Byfield scores it would have been a different day. It's the same old adage, if you don't take your chances you don't win."