Walsall's Brian Dutton praises 'excellent' academy youngsters after Saddlers debut

Sam Perry and Joe Willis, both aged 18, featured in the 2-1 EFL Trophy loss to Portsmouth on Tuesday.

Willis played the final 20 minutes of the clash, while Perry started and lasted the whole 90 minutes and Dutton was impressed with what he saw.

“It was an old head on young shoulders on there, Sam Perry was excellent,” he said.

“I’ve worked with him a few times for the reserves this season and we were just wondering whether or not he could continue his good form that he’s shown for the 18s in front of a crowd and a first team environment.

“He thrived in it which was great to see so credit to him, his family and all the coaches who have coached him and brought him along this season.

“Joe Willis making his debut as well, he was bright when he came on.

“You almost have to dip your toe in with the youngsters and see where they’re at in terms of their development and see if they’re mentally ready to play first team football.

“Both of the lads were a credit to themselves and their families.”

Meanwhile, Dutton was pleased to see the club tie Wes McDonald down to a new 18-month contract after impressive displays for the Saddlers.

“To get the Wes deal over the line, I’m sure it has given the fans a few more nights kip than they’ve been getting recently in terms of getting to bed and wondering what’s going to happen the next day," he added.

“It’s been on everyone’s lips – is he going to sign, or isn’t he?

“It’s great that we’ve got the deal done because since day dot, he’s been different gear to work with.

“He’s worked hard, he’s been humble enough to do his work when he’s not been in the team

“He’s taken a couple of rollicking’s from the manager and he hasn’t gone under, he’s shown great mental strength and I’m sure everyone connected with Walsall will be pleased.”