Walsall defender Manny Smith admits the fear of failure is driving him on to success.

The young centre-back impressed in the Saddlers’ 2-0 win at Northampton on Saturday in only his eighth start of the season.

He is deputising for the injured Rhys Weston and believes he has a limited window to impress manager Chris Hutchings.

Smith said: “When you are given your chance you have to impress, otherwise you won’t get a second look in.

“You always have to be prepared, even if you’re not getting games, always train hard and let the management know you’re interested.

“You will always get a chance because there are a lot of games during the season, but when it comes you’ve got to take it.

“It’s been unlucky for Rhys, but I’ll just take my chance and try my hardest. Every time I come in I try my best and give 100 per cent.”

Late goals from Stephen Hughes and Jabo Ibehre won Saturday’s match for Walsall to lift them to 11th in League One.