Anthony Gerrard’s departure from Walsall is only a matter of time according to boss Jimmy Mullen, despite no bids for the defender before the transfer deadline.

Gerrard’s desired move failed to materialise when potential suitors Birmingham didn’t firm up their interest following his transfer request last week.

The transfer window shut yesterday, meaning the centre back will remain at the Banks’s Stadium at least until January, but Mullen believes his time with the Saddlers is running out.

He said: “It is only a matter of time for good players to move on anyway. Centre-halves of Anthony Gerrard’s quality are few and far between.

“I am sure there will be a lot more interest in him when we get to January.”

Gerrard, who has made 126 appearances for the Saddlers, was handed the captaincy following Stephen Hughes’ substitution in the 5-2 win at home to Southend on Saturday and Mullen doesn’t believe the 22-year-old has anything to prove.

He said: “The fans know what he is about and the kid just wants to play at the best possible level.  You cannot blame him for that and I certainly do not hold any grudges.

“I’m more than delighted because he is a good player but that is me being selfish because I am the manager.”

With the former Everton youngster staying, Mullen felt little need to dip into the transfer market, although did make contingency plans.

He made enquiries about two players and may go back for the duo when the loan market reopens next Tuesday following Saturday’s home game with Leyton Orient.

“I enquired during the last week to see if they were available on loan,” he said. “If I have a problem after next Saturday  I’ll be in a position to say I may have to get someone in on loan.”