Maik Taylor has urged Birmingham goalkeeper rival Colin Doyle to keep his head up after replacing the youngster for Saturday's win over Derby.
Taylor said: "Doyley will be disappointed now. I've experienced that myself as well but I've always managed to bounce back. He has still got the world at his feet.
"He's only 22 and he is such a massive presence. He towers over you at six feet, six inches and he's got all the attributes to go very far in the game. It's important that he works hard on the training ground."
He said: "I always hoped I'd get an opportunity again. It's the manager's decision and, while I might not always agree with his decisions, I have to accept them.
"I'm still paid by the club and I have to go in day in and day out and wait for an opportunity - and when it comes you have to be ready.
"It's important now to stay focused and hope I get a run in the side. I've got a year left on my contract and I'm going to do as well as I can and see where that takes me."
