Walsall's Amadou Bakayoko takes inspiration from stars

The 21-year-old was named Saddlers young player of the year at the end of the 2016/17 campaign following an impressive season which saw him net 10 goals in all competitions.

But despite making 45 appearances for Jon Whitney's side last term, Bakayoko knows there is work to do if he is going to become Walsall's leading centre-forward next year.

And in a bid to improve, the striker is spending the summer watching clips of the best strikers in the game.

"I watch a lot of videos at home now trying to pick things up from other strikers," Bakayoko said.

"Romelu Lukaku, Luis Suarez and Harry Kane. There his a lot you can learn from all the top strikers.

"They all move differently and you can pick up something from all of them.

"I'm focused and I want to learn so I can kick on next season."

As well as looking at strikers in the Premier League, Bakayoko is also eager to learn from fellow Saddler Simeon Jackson – who has amassed more than 400 professional appearances and has won 49 caps for Canada.

"It's good to have the likes of Simeon to lean on," the Sierra Leone forward continued.

"He has been through it all in his career. He has seen lots of things and he tends to know what is coming.

"I have watched a few of his videos but him talking to me personally and letting me know how he feels has really made it clear how I need to deal with things.

"You can only thank people like that – people who are willing to help you out by passing on their experience. I only hope I can do that in the years to come."

As well as working hard to improve his game, Bakayoko is also set to become a father for the first time this summer.

And his team mates have also been quick to dish out advice on parenthood.

"I’m excited," he added.

"Jimmy O’Connor and the gaffer (Whitney) have given me some advice so I’m looking forward to it. I can’t wait for it.