George Bowerman: 'Walsall FC will be in top shape for training'

George Bowerman today insisted Walsall will be in top shape when they return for pre-season training this week.

The Saddlers will regroup at Essington on Thursday and striker Bowerman believes they will hit the ground running.

The players have been following an 11 run programme set out by physio Jon Whitney since the end of last season.

And Bowerman revealed they could not escape Whitney over the summer as he kept tabs on their progress.

"I've been getting regular texts from Jon Whitney both before and after each run," said Bowerman. "They've gone well, to be fair, and I feel ready to step up into pre-season training.

"The runs have certainly benefitted me and the rest of the lads feel the same.

"The runs have certainly kept me ticking over and I feel ready for pre-season training now."

Jamie Paterson is also keen to start after two months off and said insisted he is ready to prove his worth.

"I'm certainly going into it in good shape," he said.

"I'll be looking to make an impact straight away. My aim is to be in the starting line-up come the first game, so I'll be working hard to achieve that.

"It's a big season for me and hopefully I can build on last year, play regularly and chip in with a few assists and goals.

"It's going to be important for us to start well and take things from there."

Meanwhile, the Saddlers will launch their new kit and unveil their new sponsors tomorrow.