Reece Flanagan hails Walsall's medical staff following new deal
Midfielder Reece Flanagan has thanked Walsall's medical staff after he agreed a new contract to remain at the Banks's Stadium.
The 22-year-old, who has made 35 appearances for the Saddlers, has put pen to paper on a deal that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2018.
Flanagan is yet to feature this season after rupturing his anterior cruciate knee ligament back in April.
But the talented youngster is now targeting a return to the first-team and has thanked the club's staff for the role they have played in his recovery.
"I'm thrilled to have signed and I can't thank the staff enough because they have been brilliant with me," Flanagan said.
"I'm very self motivated anyway but they've definitely played a big part in my recovery and a lot of it is down to them.
"Now I can concentrate on getting back fit and hopefully playing some part this year."
Flanagan said he has used his time on the sidelines to work on his fitness and physically.
"I think you've got to see every setback as an opportunity," he continued.
"For me, I've never been able to put on weight but since my injury I've gained six kilograms in muscle mass.
"I took the positive from it and I feel like I'm going to come back stronger than I was before."
Flanagan has watched on as fellow youth team graduates Matt Preston, Kieron Morris and Amadou Bakayoko have gone to play leading roles for Jon Whitney's side this season.
And now the 22-year-old wants to make a similar impact.
"It's a great club for young players and you only have to look at the examples in the first team squad now," he added.
"Ama is breaking through this season, Matty has been solid at the back and Kieron is one of the first names on the team sheet.
"So when you're coming through with these lads, we're all in similar situations and you can empathise and relate to each other.
"Hopefully I can get back fit this year, play a couple of games and get match fit ready to play alongside them."
Meanwhile, boss Whitney admits he is delighted to see Flanagan agree a new deal.
"Reece was establishing himself as first team player and an important member of the group before his injury," Whitney added.
"He was unfortunate when and where his injury happened but credit to him, he's dealt with it fantastically well and I think he'll come back a fitter and stronger person.
"Technically we know what he can do so he'll be a great addition to the squad and I think could still play a part this season."
