Walsall the place to be for O'Keefe

Midfielder Josh O'Keefe claims being at Walsall is better than the Premier League – despite his lack of action.

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The midfielder has struggled to make an impact since his summer switch from Blackburn, making just one brief substitute appearance.

The Saddlers travel to Hartlepool on Saturday with the 20-year-old battling for a midfield spot with Dwayne Mattis and Mark Bradley.

But even after a slow start to his Saddlers career O'Keefe insists he is in the right place.

He said: "I've learned a lot of things fast since I've been here, it's a step-up from Blackburn. Even though they are in the Premier League I'm playing a higher level of football here. I'm with the first team and it's better.

"The reserve team was fine and I was training with the first-team at Blackburn now and then but coming here I'm involved on a Saturday and Tuesday so it's a big step up.

"I want to get in the team, start playing well and show people what I can do."

O'Keefe made his Walsall bow 12 days ago as a late substitute at Tranmere and is confident he can become a fixture in the line-up once he gets his opportunity.

"If I get the chance I have to take it, I know what to do. I train with the lads every day and I know I can adapt to League One," he said.