Baggies boss sees positives in competition
ALBION's Premier League 2 boss James Shan has highlighted his disappointment at his side's Checkatrade Trophy exit, but understands what a valuable experience it has been for the Baggies youngsters.
Albion lost all three of their group games by two goals to nil, including defeat to Gillingham at The Hawthorns on Tuesday evening.
But Shan was still proud of the effort shown by his players.
"They [Gillingham] have got an awful lot of experience in their side and players who could probably play at a higher level.
"We knew it was going to be difficult with such a young squad, but ultimately we utilised it as an opportunity for the boys to go and showcase what they can do.
"There have been a lot of positive performances from some of our boys across the three games."
And in terms of the Checkatrade Trophy as a whole, Shan believes that despite its criticism the competition has been beneficial for the development of Albion's youngsters.
"It's been a good test for them but also an eye-opener to the intensity of League One as well as the quality on show there.
"As a football club we try and get the boys who are at a certain stage out on loan. For those who were unfortunate not to get the move, the competition has given them three games to go and see if they can play at that level and for us to assess them further.
"It may also have been a humbling experience for the lads to come up against players who've been there and done it."
Shan's side are back in action in the PL2 on Monday November 21 when they face Newcastle United.