Paul Downing hopeful of new Walsall deal

The 23-year-old centre-back has confirmed he's keen to commit his future to the Saddlers, after thanking the club for the "fantastic" opportunity they have given him in the game.

Downing's contract expires at the end of the season but he is one of four players – along with Tom Bradshaw, Richard O'Donnell and Rico Henry – in talks over new deals.

And he said: "It is not something I deal with, though there have been some preliminary discussions.

"I have always said I'm happy here. I'm from the area and I enjoy coming and playing for Walsall.

"I'm optimistic and hopefully we can get something sorted in the near future."

Downing has made 122 appearances for the Saddlers since joining on a free transfer in the summer of 2012, having been released by Albion.

His growing standing in the dressing room was recognised last summer when he was made the club's vice-skipper.

And Downing admits he is keen to repay the club for the faith they have shown in him, saying: "They have given me such a fantastic opportunity.

"This is my third season now and the number of games I have played and the way I feel the club has progressed each year has been good, as well as my performances and gaining experiences.

"I am thankful to them for that and I would like to continue."

Downing believes his experiences with the Saddlers have given him a fantastic grounding in the game, adding: "I'm very experienced for my age but still young.

"I managed to captain the one game, which I don't want to remember at Rochdale this season when we lost 4-0.

"That was a great moment for me. Being made vice-captain for me this season was a great honour but I want to keep progressing and doing well for the club."

Securing key players on long-term contracts has been a key feature of manager Dean Smith's reign.