'I've gone away a boy and come back a man!' Former Walsall loanee pays tribute to Saddlers
Stoke goal hero Nathan Lowe says he is indebted to Walsall Football Club after his goal helped the Potters to a priceless draw at West Brom.
Lowe struck 18 goals for the Saddlers in all competitions during a memorable six-month spell before Stoke recalled the 19-year-old last week.
He was surprisingly thrown straight into the starting line-up for the trip to West Brom and scored just nine minutes into the game, giving Mark Robins' men an early 1-0 lead.
But the youngster was keen to praise his loan club for giving him the confidence and opportunity of regular football.
"I'm really happy to come back and help the team fire on all cylinders and to get a goal early, it took the pressure off," said Lowe.
"It gives me confidence I can impact at this level after a really enjoyable loan spell.
"I was excited to get the call, but it was bitter sweet as I enjoyed my time at Walsall.
"I've gone away a boy and come back a man."
He leads the way in the race for the League Two golden boot after extending his league tally to 15 with the final goal in Walsall's 5-1 rout over Tranmere Rovers last weekend.
"The experience was great, I've learned a lot, I can't thank Walsall enough," added Lowe
"It's the most enjoyable six months I've had in football.
"The environment was amazing, good community and the fans took to me right away.
"The manger (Mat Sadler) played me , he didn't have to, we had more experienced strikers around.
"The goals kept lowing and I was enjoying it more and more."
In their first match without Lowe, Walsall continued their winning ways with a 4-2 win over MK Dons.
