Walsall tinkering working for James O'Connor

Defender James O'Connor believes Walsall's new tactical flexibility has been key in their successful start to the new campaign.

Boss Dean Smith is quickly building a reputation as a tinkerman after switching between a number of different formations already this season.

And O'Connor feels being able to operate different systems can only benefit the Saddlers' promotion bid.

He said: "I have really enjoyed all the changes. I have been quite lucky throughout my career because I have played in a lot of different systems and positions.

"I think sometimes you can get bogged down in systems. As long as the lads understand what we are doing and why we are doing it then that's the key.

"But the boss' changes are keeping everyone on their toes because there have been some real shocks.

"There have been times when players have come out the team and they have been in the top two or three players in the game before.

"But if you are getting good performances and results then as a player you almost have to accept it. You can understand it if the team keeping winning and so far the gaffer has got everything right."

Last weekend's game against Bury was Walsall's ninth in 30 days following a start to the season that's seen them play Saturday and Tuesday every week.

And O'Connor admits the players were relieved not to have a game this Tuesday, so they could concentrate on working on the training ground.

He said: "In all honesty we needed a midweek without a game. We have had nine games in such a short space of time. That is tough going, especially right at the start of the season.

"It was disappointing to lose the last one of those batch of games, especially as we deserved a lot more from the Bury game.

"But we've had some time to regroup and now we're all looking forward to getting another win against Doncaster tomorrow."