Walsall talk with Febian Brandy over new contract

Walsall manager Dean Smith has held talks with Febian Brandy as he looks to tie another of his in-form stars to an extended contract.

moreSmith has held preliminary discussions with the 24-year-old, who played a key role as the Saddlers beat Tranmere 2-0 last night to move within four points of the League One play-off spots.

Brandy's defence-splitting run won the penalty from which Will Grigg's 18th goal of the season set Smith's side on course for an 11th win in 16 games.

And, after Brandy hinted yesterday he was interested in staying at the Banks's Stadium beyond the summer, Smith said: "I have sat down with Febian already and discussed things and told him we would like to keep him at the club.

"He is open to sitting down further with us so hopefully that might be one we can sort out.

"We haven't talked figures yet, I just wanted to get a feel from Febian and whether he wanted to stay, and he has intimated to me that he would like to stay at the club.

"It's his first full season for a long time and I think he's grateful for the fact he's getting a run of games."

Brandy is one of several Saddlers players getting increased attention from scouts, with a host of Championship clubs again represented last night.

Birmingham manager Lee Clark and coach Steve Watson attended, along with Burnley director of football Lee Darnborough.

He was making the latest of several visits to the Banks's Stadium and was joined last night by manager Sean Dyche.

Meanwhile, the Saddlers again edged closer to the play-off places but Smith is refusing to be swept away by their stunning form.

He said: "I feel we have got momentum and we're a force to be reckoned with for any team we play against.

"The lads go in after games and have a look at the other results but the most important thing is the next game."