Walsall youngsters backed

Clayton Ince has backed Walsall’s young guns to shine, as injuries and suspensions take their toll.

The Saddlers will definitely be without left-back Daniel Fox for Saturday’s visit to Oldham, as he has been handed a one-match ban for his sending off against Port Vale.

Tommy Mooney is rated as doubtful, following his early withdrawal from the Boxing Day draw at Vale with a hamstring problem, but could be risked if he recovers sufficiently before tomorrow.

However Anthony Gerrard will be available for selection as his one match ban for reaching five bookings does not take effect until seven days after the fifth booking was accrued.

The centre-back will now miss the FA Cup fourth round match with Millwall at the Banks’s on January 5.

“I think that we have a good squad,” the goalkeeper said.

“And the youngsters that come in like Richard Taundry and the others that come into the team are doing their jobs.”

“We are not too concerned about the injuries . I think everybody’s full of confidence so whoever steps into the squad, we will support them and play as a unit.”

“The youngsters coming in will learn from the experienced players like Mooney, Ricketts, myself and Darren Wrack.”

“We have a young crop under us who are coming to show the manager they are capable of doing a job.”

Taundry stepped into the left-back position when Fox was suspended for the 3-0 win over Millwall recently and the 18-year-old may have the opportunity to deputise again at Boundary Park, having played well in Fox’s absence.