Memories for Mantom are the goal for Saddlers

Sam Mantom has vowed to make a lasting impact at Walsall – after admitting he doesn't feel like anyone remembers him.

The on-loan Albion man is expected to start tomorrow's visit of Hartlepool after a scoring debut in Tuesday's 3-2 win over Sheffield United.

Mantom signed just hours before the stunning victory – with all five goals coming during 26 frenetic second-half minutes – as the Saddlers gave their League One survival hopes a boost.

It may have been his debut but the Banks's Stadium isn't a foreign place or the 20-year-old, who joined Albion from the Saddlers' under-12 side.

Mantom started his career with Walsall and now he is aiming to take his next big step into the Premier League with Albion, back at the Saddlers.

He said: "I didn't expect to come back and I know a few people at the club, it's nice to come back and hopefully a few people remember me but I doubt it!

"I'm here for 28 days with a view to extending and hopefully I'll extend it.

"I follow Walsall because they are a local side and I was here as a kid, so I always followed the results.

"I have been waiting for my opportunity at West Brom. We have got a really good experienced side and it's always going to be hard to get in there.

"But to come here and see people like George Bowerman playing and, when there are 18 and 19-year-olds in the squad, you always feel you are going to be given a chance."

Mantom impressed on Tuesday, as the Saddlers escaped the drop zone to move two points clear with a game in hand.

The midfielder formed an immediate bond with Stoke loanee Florent Cuvelier – who has been nominated for League One's Player of the Month for February.

The Belgian has scored two goals in seven games for the Saddlers since his move and Mantom admits their partnership has already blossomed.

He said: "He gives me the freedom to go forward and he knows he's got to sit. We can build up a partnership."

Richard Taundry is a major doubt after limping out on Tuesday with a hamstring injury, with Lee Beevers set to deputise at right-back.

Jamie Paterson is also doubtful with an ankle injury but George Bowerman is back from cramp.

Adam Chambers could be in contention after almost three weeks out with a cut on his ankle.