Saddlers boss rules out new loan deals

Walsall will not turn to the loan market in their hunt for a new centre-back, boss Dean Smith has confirmed.

The Saddlers are in need of a commanding new defender after James Chambers decided to call time on his career earlier this month.

Smith is currently running the rule over 21-year-old trialist Liam Wakefield who featured in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Villa – a match Walsall played in their new white away strip.

But despite the season being under a fortnight away, the boss refuses to be rushed and has ruled out the loan market.

"I'll have a chat with Liam and see where we go from here," Smith said.

"Liam is only 21 and he is one of a few we are looking at, the place is up for grabs.

"I've been offered a lot of loan signings in that position but I don't believe it's right to bring in a player whose parent club insists they play. You have to earn the right to play.

"There is no doubt we need a centre-back, we need someone to come in whether it's a progressive young player or a more experienced one. But it won't be a loan."

One player Smith is an admirer of is Villa striker Callum Robinson who scored against Walsall in Saturday's 1-1.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell in League One with Preston last season and Smith admits he is a fan.

"I had a few phone calls to Paul Lambert about Callum last year but unfortunately he went to Preston," the boss said.

"But we have a good relationship with Villa and the way we try and play can only strengthen that relationship.

"I know Tim and his philosophy at Villa and Tottenham has been to bring players through.

"Callum is a player I like but any move for him would totally depend on how the team and the strikers I have are playing."