Saddlers' trip to Southend in doubt

Walsall's winter misery will continue today with Southend set to call off Saturday's clash – leaving the Saddlers with just one game in six weeks.

Roots Hall is under four inches of snow and has no frost covers, so the Saddlers' League One rivals will postpone the clash.

The Shrimpers gained permission from the Football League for a local referee to inspect the surface at 4pm this afternoon and it is anticipated the game will fall victim to the weather. It will be the Saddlers' fourth postponement in a row due to the big freeze.

Boss Chris Hutchings, who was due to travel with the team tomorrow, said: "It is surprising they don't have covers but if that's how they work, that's how they work.

"There are loads of games off already and those who have to travel overnight have requested early inspections. It seems logical to do that.

"It's disappointing we don't have a game, but other clubs are in the same boat. We can't change the elements and I don't think it's going to get any warmer."

The Saddlers have not played since a 2-2 draw at home Leyton Orient on December 19 after games with Bristol Rovers, Norwich and Charlton were frozen off.

Tuesday's rearranged clash with Norwich is now also in doubt with sub-zero temperatures and snow forecast over the weekend.

Hutchings added: "There must be some sort of doubt regarding Tuesday, but we'll be thinking about that later on."

The next game for Walsall – which could be their only outing in six weeks – will be the visit of Brighton next Saturday.

Despite his frustrations, Hutchings insists his players' safety is too important to risk.

He said: "I've never known to have three weeks off on the spin, it's been very disappointing. A lot of people at the club have worked very hard to get the games on only for the referee to not play it.

"They have a job to do and if they fear for player safety, that's paramount. We can't go against that, even if we feel we should play."

Walsall's rearranged League One game against Charlton at the Banks's Stadium is now on Tuesday February 2 (7.45pm).