Chris Hutchings' challenge at Walsall

Walsall manager Chris Hutchings is challenging his players to prove they have turned the corner in this season's League One campaign.

After victory over Exeter and a hard-fought draw at Dagenham ended a worrying seven-game slump for the Saddlers, Hutchings's side have the chance to make more progress - and further ease the flak aimed at their boss - at home to bottom club Tranmere.

The results have encouraged Hutchings's players to talk-up their prospects for the campaign this week and, even though he will have to change following the recall of midfielder David Davis by Wolves, Hutchings expects his team to cope.

But the manager did admit that their pressure-building autumn struggle had taken its toll.

He said: "It hurt me, of course it did. It does effect you. It effects everyone connected with the club - the coaches, the players, the chairmen and all the staff.

"We don't want to get beat but you learn a lot from defeat and its how you bounce back that really matters.

"I think we have turned the corner and we have to go out and prove that again tomorrow.

"We know what we need to do to turn this season around but I believe there are signs of recovery."

Midfielder Paul Marshall is in pole position to fill the breach left by Davis's departure yesterday, following a recall from Wolves.

Hutchings has been delighted with the youngster input but took his loss on the chin.

He said: "We are thankful to Wolves for allowing him to come here and gain experience. He has displayed good attitude and application - he wants to learn and has an old head on young shoulders.

"I'm sure he will go on to have a bright future in the game and maybe we will be able to bring him back here at some point in the future as he continues his football education.

"Whether we bring someone in, or give someone already here their chance, is something that we will be looking at very closely."

Marshall is one option although Steve Jones could provide an alternative - although whichever starting line-up emerges will be charged with the task of hitting the ground running.

Hutchings said: "When we played Exeter we came out of the blocks quickly and started very well, but that wasn't the case last week."