Walsall hand teenager Rico Henry pro deal

The left-back made his first-team debut in last year's pre-season and has flourished in the Saddlers' youth ranks.

Manager Dean Smith said: "I am very pleased to be offering Rico a first professional deal.

"It's not often that we make this kind of offer to someone his age, but he has showed great potential and ability beyond his tender years.

"He deserves to move up and I hope that we can progress him in the right way. Hopefully, he will remain grounded and put the hard work in.

"If he can do that, he will be an important player for this club in the years to come."

Henry, who is described as an attacking full-back, feels he has come on leaps and bounds under head of youth Neil Woods and coach Graham Biggs.

He said: "This is a good place to be and a good place to develop. I am excited to have signed this deal and can't wait to start pushing on.

"Neil Woods and Graham Biggs have been fantastic and they have had a big influence on me. Now I want to show them that I am ready for this challenge.

"It's the next level for me, having played against Leeds United during the last pre-season, it has whetted my appetite and I want more.

"I know that the hard work is only just starting, but working alongside Dean Smith, his assistant Richard O'Kelly and experienced pros day in, day out can only benefit me.

"We have got a close-knit group here and I have been welcomed into it, which has been a big bonus.

"The target now is to play regularly for the Under-21s and reserve team and show that I am ready to make the step up. This is a proud moment for me and my family."