Adam Chambers: Rico Henry set for the top

Walsall skipper Adam Chambers believes team-mate Rico Henry has all the talent needed to reach the top of the game.

The 18-year-old, who made his England Under-19s debut in Holland last night, is enjoying an outstanding campaign after breaking into the Saddlers' first team.

Henry's performances have drawn attention from the Premier League elite with Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham all said to be monitoring a player dubbed 'the next Ashley Cole'.

But while experienced midfielder Chambers believes Henry will make it to the top flight, he feels the youngster must continue his development with the Saddlers for the time being.

"From day one you could tell Rico was a very talented lad," Chambers said. "He has got that inner belief, confidence, tenacity and that want to do well and succeed.

"He is also one of those full-backs

that every manager is looking for in today's game.

"He is good defensively but he is also very good going forward – he is the whole package.

"Everyone will have a look at him

because he defends well, scores goals,

creates chances and pops up in the oppositions box.

"But Walsall is the best place for him and for a lot of the talented young players here as well.

"For any player wanting to improve and develop, the staff here are great.

"The staff here know exactly how to get the best out of young players and how to improve them."

Despite all the attention he is getting, Chambers insists Henry will keep his feet firmly on the ground.

"Rico's laid back and takes everything in his stride – he won't be fazed at all by playing for England or by the attention he is getting," the captain said. "He is a chilled guy.

"But it's good for both him and club that he is being linked because it shows he is doing well.

"In football, there are a lot of stories that fly around.

"So until anything happens you can't look too much into it.

"I can understand why Rico has been linked and sometimes you forget he is only 18 years old because his performances have been so assured.

"He has got a really bright future but the staff and the manager here deserve a lot of credit for the way they have got the best out of him."