Walsall manager Jimmy Mullen has backed his powerful strike pair of Michael Ricketts and Jabo Ibehre to take League One by storm.
The duo shone in the 3-1 win at Bristol Rovers on Saturday, with Ricketts grabbing a brace and Ibehre causing untold problems for the Pirates backline.
Mullen believes they could be the key to seeing Walsall maintain their top six challenge.
He said: “What a pairing, what a pairing. Any football club at this level would not like to see on their names on the teamsheet.
“I wouldn’t be looking forward to it, I’ll tell you that. Michael and Jabo, as a pairing on a weekly basis, are a handful for anyone.”
Ricketts netted his first after just seven minutes, when he was left unmarked to tap in Anthony Gerrard’s knockdown, before he scored a 90th minute penalty.
The former England international was making his first start after completing a three match ban.
Mullen insists his side knew they could score goals in the West Country.
He said: “We had a game plan and we know that Rovers scored 15 goals, but had conceded 12, so we knew if we got at them there might be a weakness.
“We tested it, found it out and we made it count.”
Ibehre and Ricketts were assisted by the recalled Alex Nicholls on the wing and Mullen was delighted with his contribution.
He said: “Alex was smashing. I am pleased for the kid, he has come in, done well and did well for the team as well, which is more important.”
Netan Sansara also impressed the manager, after he replaced Paul Boertien at left back, for his first appearance since the League Cup defeat to Darlington.
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