New-boys set for Saddlers debuts

New signings Neil Etheridge, Jason Demetriou and Milan Lalkovic are all expected to feature against the Bucks in the first of four games in 11 days which makes up the Saddlers pre-season fixture programme.

So far, Smith's team have been restricted to behind-closed-doors encounters with Nike Academy and Wolves, meaning tonight is the first chance for fans to get a glimpse of the new-boys.

"We are looking forward to the challenge that AFC Telford will present to us," said Smith.

"They are a good side and we know that the game will be played on a nice surface.

"The pre-season has gone well so far; the players returned at a good level and they have been able to build on this with plenty of hard work and endeavour.

"We've managed to stay relatively injury-free so far.

"The behind-closed-doors games that we have played have allowed us to try out various things and run the rule over a number of players, but we are looking forward to our first outing in front of the fans.

"The standard of opposition that we face is good and will stand us in good stead for the challenges ahead."

After tonight, Saddlers host Villa on Saturday and entertain Albion next Tuesday, before heading to League Two Luton Town a week on Saturday.

The squad to face Telford is unlikely to change much between now and the opening League One fixture with Oldham on August 8, with Smith in the hunt for only a couple of new additions.

Neither is it likely to feature many trialists.

Former Manchester United striker Jon Cofie and ex-Leeds full-back Zac Thompson have been training at Essington but Smith added: "There won't be too many trialists involved."

Admission is £8 adults, £5 concessions and free for under-16s.