Ian Sharps: Walsall youngsters will soon be pushing for the first team

The Saddlers have successfully developed a host of top talents over the past few years with the likes of Kieron Morris, Matt Preston, Ama Bakayoko and Liam Kinsella all coming through the youth ranks to make their mark at the Banks's Stadium.

Sharps joined Walsall as first-team coach back in November after Dean Holden left to become assistant manager at Bristol City.

And the former Rotherham defender is enjoying working with the club's talented teenagers.

"The young players in the youth team have really impressed me," the 36-year-old said. "A few of then have been brought up to train alongside the pros and they haven't looked out of place which is really

pleasing.

"There is a real pathway in the club and young players can see that, if they work hard, they too can play for the first team.

"If you look at Kory (Roberts), Ama, Matt, Kins, Reece (Flanagan) and Rico Henry, who has now left.

"This club have developed a lot of talent over the past few years.

"That is the way it should be and long may it continue."

Having forced their way into the first team, Sharps believes players like Morris, Flanagan and Preston are now role models for the players currently among the youth ranks.

"I think lads coming in now will be looking up to Matt and Reece and Kieron and seeing them as role models," Sharps continued.

"They can see what they need to aim for and that is added responsibility for Matty, Reece and Kieron.

"I think there are many more lads who are going to come through the system.

"I've watched a few youth games now and every time I've been hugely impressed."

Sharps joined Walsall from National League outfit Chester where he worked as assistant to boss Jon McCarthy.

The Blues currently have two Saddlers players on loan with Theo Vassell and Liam Roberts both joining them on a temporary basis in the summer.

And Sharps believes the move to the Deva Stadium has been beneficial for both of them.

"I think the move has been brilliant for them," he added.

"They are playing in front of crowds which is vitally important at the stage they are at in their development.

"I think if you speak to Theo and Robbo they will say it has brought them on.

"It has helped make them men.

"I remember back to the opening day of the season when we won the first game at Dagenham.

"The pair of them were absolutely buzzing.

"It was something they hadn't experienced before – playing in front of a crowd with that emotion.

"You could see the relief and what it meant when they won the game.

"Both the lads have fitted in well there and have made a big impression."