Walsall FC: Another bright prospect emerges

Aug 17 2009 by Andy Walker, Birmingham Mail

By Andy Walker

SADDLERS boss Chris Hutchings admitted the club look as if they’ve got yet another bright prospect in young Darryl Westlake.

The 18-year-old first-year pro made his competitive debut against Southend, having been given the nod ahead of Richard Taundry, to replace the suspended Rhys Weston at right-back.

And the rising Sutton Coldfield-born star didn’t disappoint as he produced a faultless performance during the 2-2 draw.

Although Hutchings wasn’t getting too carried away, he admitted Westlake could have a big future ahead of him.

“I was very pleased with his performance, he showed in pre-season games what a player he can be,” said Hutchings. “There were one or two options I could have gone for but I’ve got belief in Darryl and he showed that, so I was really delighted for him. If he keeps improving and doing what he’s doing, who knows.

“Only time will tell whether he has a big future. He has shown the potential to do well. From his games, performances and consistency we will find out how far he goes. But he’s only a young lad, he’s got a few years ahead of him to get that experience. He was fortunate to be given that chance and he’s taken it.

“He is a very quiet, unassuming lad and he just goes about his job. I’m trying to get two right-backs, two right wingers and that’s how I see him and Rhys.

“Rhys started, he got sent off, Darryl has come in and done exceptionally well.”