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Darrell Clarke: Walsall need time to build a squad

Saddlers manager Darrell Clarke is looking to learn from Oxford United’s success this season as he aims to build a competitive squad.

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The League One side defeated Walsall 1-0 in the FA Cup on Saturday, extending their unbeaten run to 16 games.

And Clarke wants the same time that has been awarded to United boss Karl Robinson to allow him to make a success of his side.

“Robbo the manager has had a bit of time with the team, that’s what it takes, a bit of time to build things together,” Clarke said.

“It’s even harder at a club like this by the way.

“We spend within our means, that’s not a dig that’s just a fact.

“Therefore you’re working on development players and making them better and then tweaking away in transfer windows.

“That’s why the club has had the success years ago.

“That’s what we’ve got to endeavour to keep working towards.

“Everyone’s grafting, the mindset of the players is decent and the effort and application is there for all to see.

“But there’s a hell of a lot of work to do.”

Meanwhile, Clarke was left frustrated at his side for not taking the chances they’re creating.

“We created a lot of opportunities in the second half against Stevenage, it’s not like we’re not creating,” he added.

“Oxford was a different game, we didn’t create a lot to be honest.

“In the league I think we’re up in the top 10 for expected goals.

“What that tells you is that we’re creating chances but we’re not taking the opportunities.

“We have to keep working hard and make them better players.

“You have to look at the course of the season, it’s 10 clean sheets in all competitions.

“We’re trying to build a solid base here.

“I’m just frustrated as we don’t make enough of our key moments in games.

“Against Oxford there were going to be very limited opportunities but in the league it’s been on a regular basis.

“We have to keep working hard with the players that are giving me everything.”