Parkin pleads for a second chance

Walsall striker Sam Parkin has pleaded for a second chance with the Saddlers after admitting his future at the club is in the balance.

The 29-year-old has made just eight starts since arriving on a free transfer last summer, falling short of the number of appearance needed to trigger a second year at the Banks's Stadium.

Injuries have blighted his season but the former Swindon forward made a goalscoring return in the reserves' 4-0 win at Burton on Tuesday.

But Parkin is still in the dark over his future and admits he needs to prove he deserves a new contract.

He said: "I'd listen to any off on the table but like a number of the lads I'm playing for my future. There was an option of another year if I played enough games but I'm some way short of that. I'm not sure what's happening in the summer.

"There's not long left to make a positive impact but if I do get the chance I can end the season with a flourish.

"They way football is I would love to stay, but I've not had many opportunities to show my best form."

Parkin has netted just three times this season – once from open play – and admits his targets have not been met.

He said: "I wanted to come here and get going again and get people talking about me again, I wanted to show I still had it.

"People know I have ability but for one reason or another the manager has preferred the other two lads up front for the majority of the season. That's his prerogative as he picks the team, but I've still got something to offer at this level.

"I'd love to say the lads have really missed me but I haven't had an opportunity to show my best form anyway.

"There's no point worrying about what's gone, but it hasn't been a great season."

But Parkin has targeted a return to the squad for Saturday's visit of promotion chasing Colchester.

He said: "I was pleased with the reserve game because a week ago I had a bit of pain in training.

"I should be back in contention for a place in the squad at the weekend."