Walsall have handed a new contract to teenage forward George Bowerman.
The 19-year-old striker came through the clubs Apprenticeship programme and signed his first professional deal in 2010.
Last season he failed to make a single appearance for the Saddlers first XI and but did spend a loan period in the Blue Square North with Redditch United.
Now back at the Banks’ Stadium the youngster is keen to propel his career after being given a new deal.
“I’ve got plenty in the tank and want to show what I am capable of in the pre-season games and be in a position to really push on,” Bowerman told the club’s website.
“First and foremost I want to get a few goals in pre-season and then start the season strongly for the reserves before pushing for a place in the first-team.”
“It’s been a tough first few days back because Jon Whitney has really put us through our paces, but I know that every circuit is helping me and getting me ready to go when the season gets underway,” he added.
Fellow youngsters Jake Jones, Connor Deards and Joey Butlin will also be hoping to follow Bowerman’s lead after they finally put pen to paper on one-year contracts with a further year’s option.
The trio were offered terms at the end of their two-year Apprenticeship in May with Saddlers boss Dean Smith well aware of their abilities from his former role as the Club’s Head of Youth.
“Jake, Connor and Joey have worked really hard and developed well over the past two years of their scholarship,” said Saddlers boss Dean Smith.
“They fully deserve to be awarded professional contracts.”
“Jake is a wide left player who can beat players easily and has excellent ball control – he also has a good attitude which will stand him in good stead,” he added.
“Connor is a natural finisher with great physical ability. He has been sharp in front of goal and has made good progress.”
“Joey has worked really hard and has come on leaps and bounds since arriving at the club.”
