Dean Smith: Walsall seeing the best of Cook

Cook's brace included a 'goal of the season' contender – a stunning half-volley from the edge of the box.

And Smith believes the former Sunderland man is ready to fire on all cylinders after missing the first two months of the season with a broken ankle.

Smith said: "I've got a lot of time for Jordan – I think he's a super player. He was very impressive on Saturday. His first goal was a fantastic strike.

"During pre-season, players were asking me how we had managed to get him on a two-year contract.

"Then unfortunately he broke his ankle and it takes time to come back from that. But he's starting to look brighter and brighter and that's only good news for us."

Smith was also pleased with the link-up down Walsall's left between Cook and teenage full-back Rico Henry, who made his league debut against the Tykes with Andy Taylor (knee) still out.

The manager added: "Jordan worked really hard and I think he likes the responsibility of looking after Rico Henry behind him, not that Rico needs any helping.

"It makes me smile when I see quick players up against Rico trying to run him – it isn't going to happen!

"He's a talented kid and I'm really pleased with him – it was his full league debut and I thought he was excellent."

The win moved Walsall to within four points of the play-off zone and Smith – who this week hopes to extend the loan of Leicester City midfield man Michael Cain – is targeting a key festive period.

He added: "The run that we've been on is pleasing as is the hard work, commitment and application that the players have put into it.

"We haven't been beaten in the league since Crawley in October and we've played some really good football in that time.

"We'll just keep pushing on because we've got a really tough period coming up."