Walsall's Liam Kinsella aiming to surpass his dad

His father made more than 400 appearances in a glittering career that saw him play for the likes of Villa, Albion and Charlton.

But Walsall's Liam Kinsella is aiming to go even better after putting pen to paper on a new two-year contract.

The talented 20-year-old, whose dad Mark also appeared 43 times for the Saddlers, will remain at the Banks's Stadium until the summer of 2018 after signing an improved deal.

And now the youngster – who is comfortable in midfield and at full-back, is determined to surpass the achievements of his old man, who also won 48 caps for the Republic of Ireland.

"My dad did well as a player, he was an international and he played for Walsall as well," Kinsella said.

"It was a proud moment for him, my mum and for me when I signed my new deal.

"But both of them told me, the hard work starts now.

"My dad played a lot of games – about 400-odd.

"But I want to try and better his career. That is my target."

Kinsella will be part of the Saddlers squad that travels to Valley Parade to take on promotion rivals Bradford tomorrow.

And with doubts over the fitness of right-back Jason Demetriou, the youngster could be set to start the crunch clash against Phil Parkinson's side.

Kinsella has been restricted to just eight appearances this season but impressed when starting big games against Burton, Coventry and Dean Smith's Brentford in the FA Cup.

Now he hopes he can feature as Jon Whitney's side look to win promotion in their next four games. "I'd love to play my part in the next four games," Kinsella said.

"There is a lot riding on them but we don't think about that – we just take each game as it comes.

"This year it's been hard to get into the team because we have been doing so well.

"All the players really have been outstanding but it has still been a great opportunity for me.

"It helps my game just watching them. I'm improving all the time being in this squad and in this kind of atmosphere.

"Now we have four cup finals left, it is still in our hands to get promoted automatically and that is what we are going to be fighting for."

The versatile player insists he doesn't mind playing in defence or midfield but feels in Demetriou and Adam Chambers he has two great role models.

"Whether it's right-back or centre-midfield I enjoy each position equally," he added.

"I just enjoy playing for the first-team.

"Jason and Adam have been great this season and I can go to them and ask them anything I want. They are great to speak to and learn from."