Alfie Bates learning a tough lesson at Walsall
Alfie Bates admits he has found it tough being left out of the Walsall team but agrees with the decision to keep him sidelined.
The 19-year-old is still an important part of the first team squad but last started a game on April 2. He was even left out of the squad at one point but has recently featured from the bench.
Although he has found it difficult not playing regularly, the midfielder is adamant to prove his worth in the final games of the season.
"It's been tough, of course," Bates said.
"I'm not here to sit on the bench or sit in the stand, I want to play as many games as possible.
"I haven't done that and rightly so the gaffer has left me out, but I'll keep working hard and I want to get back into the team.
"I am frustrated of course, I want to play every game and every minute.
"I played against Harrogate and didn't have my best game so the gaffer, rightly so, leaves me out the squad. That's fair enough.
"I'm trying to come back now and show I'm ready to play. I always work my hardest in training and on the pitch.
"I'm an honest lad, if I don't think I've played my best I will say. My performances have not been up to standard and the gaffer left me out."
Despite admitting Bates has been off the boil in recent weeks, head coach Brian Dutton believes the teenager has a bright future in Walsall colours.
He said: "Alfie's form dipped a little bit with the opportunities he was given but he's a fantastic talent and is another little superstar who has achieved so much in his short tenure as a professional footballer.
"He's 19-years-old and has over 50 games in the EFL for Walsall. He's above the curve.
"His form has dipped a little bit, which it does with young lads, but he'll be back on track soon.
"He's someone that inspires me to get on the training field and work with him because I can see the talent he has. He just has to stay focused."
