Roaring support can blunt Blades
Birthday boy James O'Connor has called on Walsall's supporters to be the team's 12th man in tomorrow's clash with Sheffield United.
The two promotion rivals go head-to-head at the Banks's Stadium as the Saddlers return to League One action after a three-week break.
A large crowd is expected to see the arrival of Nigel
Adkins' side, who are among the bookmakers' favourites to win a place in the Championship.
Walsall secured a thrilling comeback victory against Gillingham in their last league outing back on October 31 with Jason Demetriou netting a last-gasp winner.
And having been inspired in that game by a roaring home support, O'Connor – who celebrates his 31st birthday today – has called for a repeat performance from Saddlers' fans tomorrow.
"After the Gillingham game, the lads spoke about how great the crowd was," the centre-back said. "They really got behind us at 2-0 down.
"It really, really helped us.
"We got back to 2-2 and last year I think that game may have petered out in a draw.
"But with the crowd behind us we went for the jugular.
"They got behind us and helped us get over that finishing line and they can do exactly the same against Sheffield United tomorrow."
O'Connor is hoping to be fit for the clash after picking up a minor calf injury.
The in-form defender trained yesterday and today and believes the recent break has allowed a number of Walsall players to get over little niggly injuries.
"It seems like an absolute
age since our last game,"
O'Connor said. "Now we're aiming to use the break to our advantage.
"A few players have had some niggles but they have now settled down and hopefully we will come back refreshed and ready to kick on.
"We have used the time well. A few of the lads have been away on international duty, which is all credit to them.
"But the rest of us have found that balance of staying sharp but also getting a rest in."
Despite Sheffield United being promotion rivals, O'Connor insists the players are treating their visit as just another game.
"They are one of the
biggest sides in the division," he added. "But without sounding boring it's just another game for us.
"There is nobody in this division we fear.
"I think in the past that has been quite an easy thing to say to make you sound good.
"But that really is the case. We believe we can beat anyone."
