Hutchings ready to go for loans
Walsall are set to raid the loan market after Chris Hutchings was given the green light to bolster his squad.
Walsall are set to raid the loan market after Chris Hutchings was given the green light to bolster his squad.
The Saddlers boss is targeting reinforcements to boost his side's flagging season despite a deserved point in a 1-1 draw with Charlton last night, which left them 13th in League One.
A glut of injuries, the latest to Rhys Weston and Manny Smith, have left the squad stretched and chairman Jeff Bonser has backed Hutchings with cash.
"The chairman has given me the go ahead to bring in players," said Hutchings, who watched Aston Villa reserves' 3-1 win over Chelsea reserves on Monday.
"A lot of names have been banded about but that doesn't mean they are going to come to Walsall.
"We're looking at Premier League and Championship players."
Hutchings hasn't spoken to any players directly but confirmed he has made initial moves to sound out potential new faces.
Despite the transfer window closing on Monday the Saddlers can still enter the loan market from next Tuesday, although they can swoop for free agents at any time.
Former Birmingham midfielder Bryan Hughes has been linked with a move to the Banks's Stadium following his release from Hull but Hutchings refused to confirm his interest.
The Express & Star understands the Saddlers were made aware of the 33-year-old's availability last week but face competition from Middlesbrough.
Hughes was believed to be earning around £15,000 a week at the KC Stadium but after having his contract paid up could fall into the Saddlers' budget.
He is likely to command wages of around £3,000 to £4,000 a week and Hutchings knows he must pay to enhance his squad.
He said: "You want experience in midfield, someone who is a talker, an organiser but can also play – but they cost the money. It's the same as everyone, if you want a good creative player you need to pay money for them."
But Hutchings will be without top scorer Troy Deeney for Saturday's visit of Bristol Rovers after the striker was sent off last night.
The 21-year-old opened the scoring with his 10th of the season before being booked for disputing the Addicks' first half penalty, from which Deon Burton levelled.
He was dismissed after tripping Kyel Reid and is suspended for the weekend.
