Milan Lalkovic came close to a Walsall return

A shock deal to bring back the 21-year-old was nearly struck at the weekend when Lalkovic, who spent last season on loan at the Banks's from Chelsea, contacted Saddlers boss Smith over a possible permanent return.

But the Slovakian under-21 international was today expected to move to Czech outfit Mlada Boleslav.

Earlier this summer Smith ruled out any chance of re-signing Lalkovic, who scored six goals for the Saddlers last term and was released by Chelsea last month.

Goal-scoring was the team's Achilles heel last term and efforts have been focused on rebuilding the forward line. In pre-season to date they have netted just twice in four games – losing 2-0 to Skrill Conference outfit Alfreton Town on Tuesday night – but Smith is confident.

"It would concern me if we weren't creating chances," he said. "You look at the pitches and they are very slow. Our movement is all about quick passing and the pitches do slow it down."

"We worked the opportunities in the first half at Alfreton. Tom (Bradshaw) was really unlucky with an effort in the second half. It would concern me more if it was a continual trend."

Smith was happy with the performances of trialists Danny Webber and Borja Ruiz in Tuesday's 2-0 loss at Alfreton. Both men will be with the Saddlers for the build-up to Saturday's game at Leamington.

"Danny looked bright in the first half at Alfreton," said Smith. "He was maybe a bit tired which is understandable as he is probably a week or two behind our other players in terms of fitness.

"Likewise Boa (Ruiz) has come in and done alright. We are looking to hopefully get a couple in this week to add to the squad ."