Walsall boss Chris Hutchings has left the door open for Julian Gray’s return but warned the winger he will not wait forever.

The 30-year-old is out of contract and hasn’t rejoined the Saddlers for pre-season training but has yet to sign for anyone else.

Gray was offered a new deal by Hutchings at the end of last season – one which is still on the table –and the boss is remaining realistic.

He said: “We’re back in training and looking down other avenues regarding his situation. He still could come back, it’s left open and that’s what I’ve said to him.

“But at the same time if we sign someone in the meantime that option would close. He hasn’t signed a contract and his ended at the end of May and he’s a free agent, but the way things are going we’ve got to look down other avenues because he’s leaving his options open.

“He was made an offer we’ve been in contact with him and agent and he wanted to leave his options open.”

The wide man is believed to have attracted interest from the Championship but the Saddlers’ deal is understood to be his only concrete offer.

Gray signed a short-term deal in February and made 18 appearances, scoring four goals, helping the Saddlers finish 10th in League One.

The former Birmingham ace has always been non-committal on his Walsall future, despite being handed a career lifeline by Hutchings.

He was in the wilderness for four months after being released by Barnsley in November 2009 before Hutchings signed him after a brief trial in February.

Including Gray, the Saddlers have lost 14 players since last season and signed just two – midfielder Paul Marshall and goalkeeper Jonny Brain.

The squad returned to their training base in Essington today after fitness tests last week but despite his depleted numbers Hutchings is pleased with his summer business so far.

He said: “We’ve not really missed out on anyone, I’m happy with what we’ve got in and we’re still looking to strengthen. We’ve got irons in the fire so we’ll see what will be.

“We’re certainly looking at a couple of players and we will have some new signings.

“There are still loads of players available.”