Express & Star

Smith still on lookout to bring in two more at Walsall

Published
Last updated

Walsall boss Dean Smith is still on the hunt for two new players after missing out on signing a Premier League starlet.

more

It was revealed last week that negotiations with a top -flight club were ongoing as Smith looks to bolster his squad before the transfer window closes on Tuesday.

But the manager has confirmed the move for the mystery player has now broken down, with Walsall now turning their attention to other targets.

"That one has fallen through and we are now in the market elsewhere," Smith said.

"I am still looking to get a couple in because, despite the good start, I still believe we need to strengthen.

"I would rather permanent signings but the longer you go the harder that gets.

"But there are a number of players who are out of contract and haven't got clubs at the moment.

"I really would prefer permanent ones but we also know a week after the window closes, the emergency loan window opens."

It is believed Smith is targeting a defender and midfielder. And the boss is still running the rule over one trialist who is training in the hope of earning a deal.

"We had two trialists here last week – one has gone now but the other is still here," he added.

Meanwhile, Smith has expressed his surprise at Chris Coleman's decision not to call up striker Tom Bradshaw for his latest Wales squad.

Two players who will be on international duty next week are goalkeeper Neil Etheridge and defender Jason Demetriou.

Etheridge is part of the Philippines squad that will play a friendly against the Maldives on Thursday and a World Cup qualifier against Uzbekistan on September 9.

While Demetriou is in the Cyprus squad competing in qualifiers for Euro 2016 against Wales and Belgium.

Both players will miss Walsall's Johnstone's Paint Trophy clash with Morecambe on Tuesday and the home league game with Bury next Saturday.

"I'm really pleased for both Jason and Neil," Smith said.

"It's a great experience for both of them with Jason in particular having two really tough games.

"I was very surprised Tom Bradshaw wasn't called up for Wales - especially when you consider the form he has been in.

"But with Jason and Neil going away, the exciting this is that opportunities have now come up for other players.

"Both Neil and Jason knows of those players come in and do well, they are going to have a real fight on their hands when they come back."