Baggies boss pleased despite missing out on play-offs
ALBION Under-21 boss James Shan is predicting a bright future for the club’s youngsters – if they match hard-work with their undoubted talents.
The Baggies put in an impressive display to secure a 2-1 victory on Monday night against an Arsenal side which included England international midfielder Jack Wilshere.
Shan’s men needed a helping hand from local rivals Villa to qualify for the play-offs, but they were unable to prevent Blackburn collecting the point required to hold on to fifth spot in the Barclays U21 Premier League Division Two.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on a top five finish and a shot at promotion, Shan praised his talented group and admitted he was proud of them.
He said: “I was really proud of the players last night against Arsenal.
“I said to the boys that it was all about us making sure we took care of our business and we did that.
“It’s a great achievement to beat a very good Arsenal side who needed three points to win the league.
“We handled the ball and the game really well.
“Alex Palmer made some world class saves and there were other good performances across the pitch such as Andre Wright up top, Joe Ward in midfield, Chay Scrivens in attacking areas and the back four defended really well.
“Obviously we are disappointed that other results didn’t go in our favour and that we missed out on the play-offs.
“Over the course of the season, like I have mentioned before, we have probably drawn too many games.
“On the other hand, if you look at both divisions we have conceded the second fewest amount of goals which is a product of what we have been like without the ball.
“We have talented players, Tony Pulis has stressed that himself when he has spoken to the press.
“There are a lot of players in that changing room who can have a great career in the game if they match hard-work with their talents.”