Express & Star

Amadou Bakayoko excited by Walsall's youngsters

Amadou Bakayoko believes Walsall’s exciting crop of youngsters are ready to make their mark on the first-team.

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The striker was part of a youthful Saddlers side that overcame Stafford Rangers earlier this month to win the Walsall Senior Cup.

Bakayoko enjoyed an impressive breakthrough year last season after netting 10 goals in all competitions for Jon Whitney’s side.

And the 21-year-old believes their recent cup success will be hugely beneficial to the likes of Liam Kinsella, Jordon Sangha, Kory Roberts, Milan Butterfield and Maz Kouhyar – who are all knocking on the door to the first team.

“It’s always a great feeling to win silverware,” Bakayoko said.

“We had the likes of Kins (Kinsella), Jordon Sangha, Kory Roberts Milan Butterfield and Maz Kouhyar as well all playing.

“They are great players. It was a good experience for all of us. But they are unbelievable players and I think they will be amazing for this club.”

Having made 45 appearances for the Saddlers last season, Bakayoko is now looking to help guide the club’s young players into the first-team.

“While we were in the changing room for the Walsall Senior Cup final, I was talking to everyone and I felt like the most experienced one there,” he continued.

“They always listen to me and it was really interesting to see what they would take in.

“It’s great that they listen and take what I say on board.”

Despite being happy with his efforts over the past 12-months, Bakayoko insists Saddlers fans are yet to see the best of him.

“I’m using the summer to work hard and make an even bigger impact next year,” he added.

“I want next season to be a great season. To do that I have to be doing the right things day in, day out.

“There is a lot more to come. I know there are plenty of areas I need to improve.

“I now need to kick on because there is a lot more to come.”