Walsall looking for old heads to lead

Walsall will ask their old heads for leadership as they attempt to put their season back on track against Swindon at the Banks's Stadium.

A potentially tough afternoon for the Saddlers is ahead tomorrow with their opponents now on the up, facing a Walsall team reeling from four defeats in a row.

The Saddlers insist the momentum-stopping run has not hit confidence or belief within a squad expecting much better of itself this season.

But manager Chris Hutchings knows the experience of his senior figures will be vital to help his younger players handle a demanding game in front of another likely sparse crowd.

He said: "We've got players such as Jonathan Macken and Darren Byfield, who are experienced lads who have been through it all in their time. They are needed to provide the leadership and I am sure they will do.

"To see Darren get off the mark with such a memorable goal last week was pleasing - but he's not going to score many that spectacular. You want to see him get those 'sniffer' chances now.

"But they are a good pair - Jonathan retains the ball so well. And their experience is important."

Hutchings's options are improved tomorrow with the availability of Alex Nicholls again after suspension while Reuben Reid, having been gently nursed through some hamstring trouble, is also fit to challenge for a start.

Reid's inclusion could come at the expense of a subdued Julian Gray, but the Saddlers are set to keep faith with the 4-3-3 strategy and look to their attacking players to lead them out of the results slump.

The manager said: "It's up to the likes of Darren Byfield and myself to try and shape the younger lads into the kind of players that they want to be.

"If I can be a sounding board for them, then great. I want to help them as much as I can, but at the same time I will be working hard and trying to improve my own game.

"It's always nice to score and hopefully I can continue to do that and help the team progress.

"From what I have seen, there is certainly the ability here."

The Saddlers are hoping to boost their so-far disappointing sub-4,000 attendance average, with some special ticket offers on a family fun day tomorrow.