Saddlers bid to hold on to Matt Gill

Walsall were today set for talks with Norwich as they bid to keep loan star Matt Gill.

The midfielder's deal expires after Saturday's trip to Colchester and boss Dean Smith confirmed this morning he will speak to Canaries chief Paul Lambert.

Gill has been a key part of the Saddlers' mini revival since arriving last month and has scored twice in seven games.

And Smith is keen on re-signing the former Exeter ace to help boost third-bottom Walsall's survival chances.

"I would like to keep Matt and I will ask the question to Norwich but the important thing is if Matt wants to stay himself," said the manager.

"We'll ask Norwich and hopefully they can do us a favour by letting us extend the loan. He's a good character around the dressing room and a great member of the squad. He's proved a good signing for us."

Gill is out of the picture at Carrow Road, with the Canaries third in the Championship, and has already spent time on loan at Peterborough this term.

He has made just 16 appearances for the promotion chasers since a summer move from Exeter in the summer of 2009.

And Gill left the door open for an extended stay but insisted he is fully focused on the trip to Essex.

He said: "As far as I know Saturday is the last game and the manager is going to speak to Norwich and then take it from there, I'm sure I'll be the last one to find out.

"I've really enjoyed it, we've had some good results and it's been great. Who knows what will happen but Saturday is important and to win it will be great for myself and the club."

Gill has been joined by Carlisle loanee Jason Price and new-boy Tom Williams – who penned a deal to the end of the season this week.