Dean Smith hungry for new signings

Walsall boss Dean Smith has confirmed he is looking to sign four – possibly five – players during the summer transfer window.

The Saddlers are one of only a handful of teams in League One yet to add to their ranks over the close season, despite Smith revealing last week he is close to bringing in a goalkeeper and a forward.

It means Tom Bradshaw signing a contract extension has been the only piece of transfer news Walsall fans have been able to celebrate so far. But Smith is pleased things are quieter now compared with this time last year.

"We only need four our five signings so we're busy, but it's been a bit more relaxing than last year," the boss said.

"It's been really good because it's given me time to meet players and have a really good chat with them to make sure they are the right people for the club.

"In the past my time has been taken up chasing too many players. This year we can hand pick the ones we go for, because we don't need wholesale changes.

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"We just need that extra quality that will push us up the table. It's been easier and the planning is going really well.

"Everyone knows we have one of the lowest budgets in the league so it's important you take that time. It's not money that makes you successful, it's having a good philosophy, with good people and a good team spirit.

"We need everyone working together so I have to make sure we get the right ones in."

Smith also feels fans will see big improvements from players such as Reece Flanagan, Liam Kinsella, Jordan Murphy, Rico Henry and Matt Preston, who all made their full Saddlers debuts last season.

"We have got a lot of young players that have now tasted first-team action," Smith said.

"Some won't be ready but others gained a lot of experience and it will be a very big season for them."