Parkin reflects on Walsall release

Released Walsall striker Sam Parkin has claimed he deserved more of a chance at Walsall as he starts his search for a new club.

But the forward, who was released on Tuesday, admits he didn't fulfil his potential after three goals in 27 appearances following a free transfer switch from Luton last summer.

Parkin arrived bidding to reignite his career but leaves the club frustrated after a disappointing year.

He said: "I haven't enjoyed my football for two or three years but I had a good pre-season and I was positive, but I had a few poor games early in the season and felt it was a little harsh to be left out of the side for months on end.

"The injuries didn't help and I would have liked a few more opportunities, but the manager picks the team and I'm not going to slag him off because I have a lot of time for him.

"Darren Byfield and Troy Deeney were doing well but there were times where I felt I should have been given more opportunities – but I shouldn't be in the game if I didn't think that.

"It's a difficult time during the hours of work when you know you're not going to feature much on a Saturday, but the manager picks the team."

The 29-year-old insists his head never dropped despite his lack of action and still believes in his goalscoring ability at a new club this summer.

He said: "I did my best and gave it my all in training and never sulked. I really wanted to get going this year and was really determined. I had this last year and things don't get moving until June or July.

"If I have to drop down to go forward I will, because I still believe I can go somewhere and be sometime's centre forward."