Liam the Lionheart a real crowd pleaser

The 18-year-old first year professional enjoyed a fine senior debut in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Bradford, after being drafted into the Saddlers team following an injury to right-back James O'Connor.

And player-coach Holden, who himself made a first appearance in 16 months when he replaced James Chambers late on, believes the youngster is set for a bright future.

"He came in and what a debut he had," said Holden. "All the plaudits should be going to him. Right-back is not really his natural position and that is similar to me as I came in at right-back on my debut so there are a lot of similarities.

"He came in and was outstanding, he has the heart of a lion. He is an all-action footballer and I think he is someone the fans will relate to, he never gives up."

Holden played the final 20 minutes of the game at centre-back after Chambers was forced off with a hamstring injury.

It was the 34-year-old's first appearance in a Saddlers shirt since the 2-0 defeat to Crewe in April 2013 and the veteran hopes he has done enough to keep his place for tomorrow's game with Yeovil, should Chambers be unavailable.

"I would certainly hope so," he said when asked about facing the Glovers. "There are lads who can come in but I would like to think I have proved after 16 months out of the team I can come in and be reliable."

Former captain Andy Butler was a surprise spectator on Saturday.

The 30-year-old centre-back moved to Sheffield United in the summer but, after not being included in the Blades' travelling party for their game at Coventry, turned up to watch his old club.

It emerged Butler, who spent four seasons at the Banks's, had been given the day off by United boss Nigel Clough.

"Andy is free to do as he pleases, spend time with his family or whatever, if he's not involved," said Clough.