Hutchings challenge for released stars
Walsall manager Chris Hutchings has challenged the players released from the Banks's Stadium to prove the Saddlers were wrong to let them go.
The club have released a quartet of players, including captain Stephen Hughes and former England striker Michael Ricketts.
Now the Banks's Stadium boss has called on the four to bounce back from their disappointment.
He said: "It's always a difficult time as a manager when you have to tell players they won't be kept on.
"It's like when you sit down with the youngsters and you have to tell them whether they are going to be offered professional deals.
"It's never a nice thing to have to do but it is part of football. It can be dream-shattering but the view of them as players is only my opinion.
"Other people might have other views on the players and in football it is always possible to prove people wrong."
Defender Paul Boertien was also told he will not be offered a new contract, removing three of the most experienced heads from the Saddlers squad.
But Hutchings is confident his squad can cope without the trio.
He said: "It is always difficult when you've got experienced players who you decide to let go, because they are important when it comes to giving the young lads a bit of help."
