Dean Smith: Tom Bradshaw hurting his own pocket

Walsall boss Dean Smith has told Tom Bradshaw wavering on a new deal will only cost him money.

Talks between the Saddlers and their top scorer over an improved contract have been ongoing since February but Bradshaw, who has a year left on his current deal with the Saddlers, has intimated there is no rush to get it done.

Boss Smith acknowledges attention in the 22-year-old is inevitable after he struck 20 goals in his first season at the Banks's.

But he has told the striker any potential suitors from higher divisions will take no notice of his contract situation.

"He has been offered an improved contract," said Smith. "I always say to players – and I have said to Tom – if a Championship club or a Premier League club are going to come in for you, they are not bothered whether you have a year left or four years left, they are going to come in because they think you are good enough. All you are doing by not signing an improved contract is costing yourself money."

Bradshaw's goal haul was achieved despite the striker missing 20 games with persistent hamstring problems.