Dean Smith issues challenge to George Bowerman

Walsall FC boss Dean Smith today threw down the gauntlet to George Bowerman and insisted the striker's future is in his own hands. The Saddlers chief wants the hitman to follow Jamie Paterson's lead to become a key member of the squad.

The 20-year-old has two goals in five games this season – and could yet claim the winner at Notts County after seeming to get the final touch on Andy Butler's effort.

And Smith expects Bowerman to prove he is up to the task of being the Saddler's No.1 striker.

He said: "Only time will tell what he can do, it's up to him. George loves scoring goals. It's what he wants to do – score goals all the time. We harness that but there are other sides of the games important.

"He's been bright and made an impact when he's come on. He's doing better and learning all the time. He's done well enough and George will get a chance to show what he can do.

"He's maturing as a lad, not just on the training ground, it's the mental side of the game and he's made big strides in doing that.

"People from the outside looking in have seen how Jamie has matured in a short space of time and George is starting to do that. Goals will help the two of them mature."

Meanwhile, Will Grigg was an unused substitute in Northern Ireland's 1-1 draw with Luxembourg last night. The striker, who made his debut in the 6-0 defeat in Holland in June, also failed to get off the bench for the 2-0 defeat in Russia on Friday.

And the Saddlers reserves drew 1-1 at Bury yesterday in their first Central League game of the season, with Aaron Williams scoring a penalty.