Ben Boycott outlines Walsall production line goal

The academy has trained alongside the first team at Essington since Mat Sadler’s appointment last summer, which has provided increased opportunities for young players.

Dylan Thomas, who has recently been handed a first professional contract along with George Barrett, is a prime example, with the 17-year-old training regularly with the senior squad. Ronan Maher is another who will be looking to break into the team after his successful loans at Rushall Olympic.

“We have all the ingredients and we also have great personnel,” co-chairman Boycott stated.

“It doesn’t just happen automatically. We have big clubs around us and our recruitment should be very good with players who ultimately leave those big academies.

“With the right investment and the right focus, I think it can be a really good thing for the club both financially and culturally.”