Express & Star

Maik Taylor's advice for Walsall goalkeepers

Walsall goalkeeping coach Maik Taylor insists his focus is on improving the club’s two first-team shot-stoppers in time for football’s return.

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The 48-year-old joined the coaching team at the Banks’s Stadium in June last year after previously gaining experience with the Northern Ireland national team and Bradford.

With football currently suspended indefinitely due to coronavirus, there is no timeline for its return, and Taylor is focusing on bringing Liam Roberts and Jack Rose back as better goalkeepers, by sending videos of drills and helping to maintain fitness.

“I don’t think too far ahead, I take each week and season as it comes,” Taylor said.

“I’m very new to the role and I’m still learning.

“There’s lots of experience to draw from, being a number one and the difficulties of being a number two. I can understand what the lads are going through and I want Robbo and Rosy to both improve and kick on. That’s the goals of my personal coaching career – all my thoughts go into those two goalies.

“I take satisfaction in the lads doing well and if I can make them better goalkeepers then that’s great.”

Meanwhile, winger Wes McDonald has heaped praise on both Roberts and Rose.

“They’re both top ‘keepers,” he said.

“Rosey hasn’t really got the minutes this season that I’m sure he would have liked to have, but Liam Roberts’ performances this season have been top drawer. He’s made some very good saves and kept us in the game at times. They’re both very good.”