Aaron Lescott keen to help nurture Walsall's young guns

Nov 27 2010 by Brian Halford, Birmingham Mail

AARON Lescott has pledged to do all he can to pass on his knowledge to Walsall’s younger squad members – and help them fulfil their potential.

Lescott was signed by Saddlers manager Chris Hutchings in the summer to bring some experience into a defensive department which has more than its share of young guns.

The 31-year-old, who can play as a full-back or in midfield, arrived from Bristol Rovers where he played 234 games in six years.

Lescott knows the demands and challenges of League One inside-out. And he is eager to assist his team-mates as they strive to help the team climb the table after such a disappointing start.

“We know that, on our day, we are more than capable of matching anyone at this level,” Lescott said.

“There are some good players here and a crop of youngsters who have the potential to really make their mark in the game and serve this club well.

“It is up to the more experienced heads in the team to help them realise their potential and get them where they want to be.

“I just want to pass on my experience and help the youngsters at this club develop.

“Every league is getting harder every year and there are some big clubs in League One but, that said, everyone is capable of beating each other and we know that, on any given day, we have to play to a high level in order to give ourselves a chance.

“We have reached those levels on occasions so we know we can do it, but it has been nowhere near often enough.”

Lescott’s versatility has already been exploited by the manager this term as he has figured mostly at right-back but switched to the left in the light of Ryan McGivern’s recent three-match suspension.

He has also captained the side with club skipper Darren Byfield out injured.

“It is always a proud moment to captain any team but to me the most important thing is that the team is winning, regardless of who is wearing the armband.

“I would have given up my games as captain in return for wins and points on the board.”