Walsall's Will Grigg set to go Dutch

Will Grigg today insisted his imminent international bow proves he can become a star at Walsall.

The striker is set to go Dutch tomorrow and make his debut for Northern Ireland against Holland in Amsterdam.

Boss Michael O'Neill will field an experimental side ahead of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers and wants to see if Grigg can handle the international heat.

The 20-year-old endured a frustrating season for the Saddlers, scoring just four goals, after being handed the No.9 shirt last summer and signing a new two-year deal in November.

He scored the winner in the last-day 1-0 victory at MK Dons which saw them finish seven points above the League One drop zone.

And Grigg said his selection shows he can still get international recognition playing at the Banks's Stadium despite the Saddlers' struggles.

"Whatever club you're playing for and you're doing the business you have a chance," he said. "People have said Walsall are a good football side when we play well and they saw it at times last season. Walsall are a great club and if you play for them you will get opportunities.

"The gaffer (Dean Smith) spoke to me this month and he'd had a call from the under-21 boss (Stephen Robinson) who mentioned to him there was a possibility they'd give me a call. I've come on so much under him and he's really pushed me forward.

"I've got to build on this now. When I get back I'll have a week off and then get to the gym, it's going to be a big pre-season for me.

"I was out of the team with injury but then he gave me a chance against MK Dons and I took it."

Walsall boss Smith handed Grigg a fresh deal last season and he is likely to lead the Saddlers' strikeforce next term.

Smith supported the forward through his seven-month goal drought last season but insisted he must return stronger in the summer.

"I got the call after his under-21 game and they told me he was the best player on the pitch," he said.

"Michael O'Neill was there, he's called him up for the full team and I'm really pleased for him. It's a big boost. It's great he's got into the full team but when he comes back to us he's going to have to work hard for his place in the team.

"Now he's going to be on the same pitch as Robin van Persie."