Anthony Forde relishing a push for top spot

Now winger Anthony Forde is calling for a repeat performance when Gillingham make the long trip to the Banks's Stadium tomorrow.

Justin Edinburgh's side currently lead the pack in League One, with two more points than the second-placed Saddlers.

But Walsall have form when it comes to top-of-the-table clashes having toppled Burton Albion earlier this month.

And Irishman Forde believes that victory is a great motivator for tomorrow's game.

"It was such a good feeling to win that game against Burton and we want it again," he said. "We were at home, in front of our own supporters and we won a game that took us to the top of the league.

"Now it's Gillingham – another big one and we are right up for it.

"It's a game that you can't help get excited about and that win over Burton gives us a boost."

Having often found himself on the bench when boss Dean Smith has employed a 3-5-2 formation, Forde was back in the side for the win at Barnsley and the thrilling 4-4 draw at Colchester last weekend.

Both games saw the 21-year-old register assists and the winger admits he has been pleased with his form since returning to the team.

"I feel like I've done well in the last two games," Forde said. "I'm just trying to do my best and now hopefully I can get on the scoresheet.

"The gaffer has changed systems and I've found myself on the bench at times, but it has worked for the team.

"I've had to stay positive, stay focused and keep working hard – that is what I'm going to do.

"Then when my opportunity comes I have to take it and I feel like that's what I've done."

Forde featured as a wing-back for the first time in the defeat to Bury in September.

And he admits that is a role he is happy to occupy again if it means he is playing every week.

"First of all, Jason Demetriou and Rico Henry have done very well in those roles so I can't complain at all," he said.

"But I want to play every week and as a winger, wing-back is a role that should suit me in a 3-5-2.

"Against Bury it was the first time I had ever played there.

"Watching it back, I've seen how I could have done better and I've also started watching the lads who are playing there more closely.

"I am starting to understand the position and the defensive side of the role more.

"Hopefully I will get another chance to play there because there is nothing better than being part of a successful side."