Walsall goalkeeper Clayton Ince admits he might start the season as the second-choice after backing Rene Gilmartin to replace him.

The Irish shot-stopper has played understudy to goalkeeper Ince, but started the first two pre-season games and will feature in tomorrow’s final friendly at Hereford.

Now Ince, who turned 37 this month, concedes Saddlers boss Chris Hutchings may hand the 22-year-old the chance to establish himself as first choice.

The veteran keeper said: “The manager is looking for young players to energise the team and the older players are just there to support them, to pass on the knowledge to the younger ones.

“I am a little bit behind, but Rene has been working hard and pushing from early on. He has nothing to feel guilty about, that is just part of the game.”