Chris Hutchings' call for defence

Walsall manager Chris Hutchings has challenged his under-fire defence to grow up and start delivering ahead of their Bournemouth showdown.

The Saddlers head to Dean Court tomorrow where the Cherries have rattled in 20 goals in League One this season - five more than the Saddlers' entire total.

Hutchings' men have kept just one clean sheet all season and sit bottom of League One, five points from safety.

And the under-pressure Saddlers boss wants his defence, without the suspended Ryan McGivern, to answer their critics.

The manager said: "Manny Smith has played over 50 games so he has to start showing leadership qualities. It is all part of growing up, taking on more responsibility and learning the game. Clayton McDonald needs to do that too.

"It's difficult and hard when you're down the bottom, but it's something that builds strong characters and you have to stand up and be counted - that's what it's all about. Stepping up to the plate and leading.

"Goals dictate games and we have to make sure we're tight at the back, because they've scored a few goals in recent weeks."

The manager has handed a trial to former Huddersfield centre-back Andy Butler, who played in the reserves' 7-0 win over Rotherham on Wednesday, to try and ease his defensive woes.

The 27-year-old is likely to spend another week with the Saddlers.

Hutchings said: "Andy is an organiser and has experience."