Andrew Tutte’s experience has been “invaluable” for Wanderers’ B Team squad, says head of Academy Dave Gardiner.

Tutte took up a coaching role to mentor the Whites’ young talent in the summer of 2022 after his playing contract had expired.

The 33-year-old has made several appearances in the Central League, allowing him to give advice on the pitch and guide players through games.

“The experience he has of playing the game is invaluable,” said Gardiner. “It takes a special kind of skill to be able to take what you learnt playing the game and get it across to the players.

“The coaching sessions he delivers, with the knowledge that he has, it is amazing to see how far he has come in a short space of time.

“Where he is now on the coaching ladder, he has a fantastic career ahead of him and he is still playing and getting minutes as well. He is invaluable to the players and all the staff.”

Sam Inwood, who signed his first professional deal in April, has delivered some eye-catching performances for the B Team in recent months.

The versatile defender has ability and can make an impact at both ends of the pitch, but Gardiner is also keen to develop his leadership skills.

He added: “Sam trains every day with the B Team and his game time is made up from the Under-18s.

“He was part of the Youth Cup squad, he plays his B Team games and on occasions he has been in and around the first team.

“I think he is getting a real experience off the pitch of learning from some of the older players and is now bringing that into his game.”

Charlie Hayes-Green has also been settling in over the past few months after joining the Whites’ ranks.

The centre-back had a 12-year association with Liverpool, playing regularly for the Reds’ Under-18 side.

“Charlie is growing both on and off the pitch,” said Gardiner. “Having spent such a long time out injured, it took quite a bit of time to get back into the full-time training.

“His performances have really grown each time he has played, whether it has been in a back three or four. I thought he was outstanding against Blackburn (earlier this month).

“That gives him a good platform to build upon now and it will be good for him to see what post-Christmas looks like and how far he can push along.”