Neil Etheridge: Give Walsall some credit

Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge reckons promotion-chasing Walsall haven't got the credit they deserve for their exploits this season.

The 26-year-old shot-stopper remains confident of the Saddlers' automatic promotion chances.

He has tipped them to remain in the race for League One's top two right until the finish.

Saturday's home game with Wigan and next weekend's trip to leaders Burton are being viewed as two games pivotal to the fortunes of Sean O'Driscoll's men.

They have fallen back to third after a run of just two wins in six matches, but Etheridge claims they have already shown the consistency required to remain in contention.

He said; "We know within ourselves that if we keep playing the way we have this season we will be in with at least a fighting chance.

"I don't think people give us enough credit. I look at the newspapers and they say 'oh, Walsall win again' - but we have been doing it all season.

"When we have had a setback it is to everyone's credit we have bounced back extremely quickly. I think for the rest of the season, we will be up there."

Etheridge, who joined the Saddlers last summer, admits players are well aware of the club's position in the table but determined to take each game as it comes.

He went on: "James O'Connor is probably the main one who has been there in the dressing room saying it (the table) doesn't matter and to focus on the games.

"It's good for us, to have an experienced pro like him, Adam Chambers or Andy Taylor. It is a great learning curve."

Winger Anthony Forde has meanwhile credited boss Sean O'Driscoll with sparking his recent good form. The 22-year-old has been a regular starter since O'Driscoll became head coach in December.

Forde said: "He's given me my chance to play games and I think I have done well for him. Off the pitch as well, he's helped me by giving little tips on my game here and there."