The 21-year-old Northern Ireland international has been hitting headlines in the lower divisions with the rich vein of form which has brought Grigg five goals in the last two games of a 16-goal season so far.

He will be eager to add to that tally as the Saddlers take their top-six challenge to Swindon tomorrow

The hunt for success is being conducted alongside Smith’s planning for the future which now sees the Walsall manager optimistic about agreeing a new two-year deal with the striker.

“I’m hoping we’re a lot closer,” said Smith. “We’ve been talking to his representatives, I’ve spoken to Will and he wants to stay as well.

“I’m hopeful of getting something sorted in the next week.

“Will wants to see his future resolved. It’s a two- year deal for next season and the one after – hopefully Will will keep banging in the goals and if he does, he can then get a deserved move to

“That’s the reality we have to deal with at Walsall but we know that. The important thing is that Will continues to develop and improve and I think he knows he can do that with us.”

Smith, who also secured midfielder Nick Featherstone on a new contract this week, is also talking to other players – likely to include Febian Brandy and long-serving defender Andy Butler – about new deals.

He added: “It is certainly a bonus to be able to plan for the future knowing that we are not faced with a struggle against relegation.

“I think the players sense that they are in a group who can achieve things beyond this season.”