Jason Demetriou is dynamic for Walsall
Walsall defender Jason Demetriou has been praised for his dynamic displays by boss Sean O'Driscoll.
The attack-minded full-back continued what has been an outstanding first season at the Banks's by netting in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Blackpool.
Demetriou joked afterwards that while a defender, he doesn't actually enjoy defending.
But that doesn't bother O'Driscoll who believes the Cypriot international adds great balance to the side.
The head coach said: "Demetriou has been really good. With Anthony Forde being a bit more adept at creating space inside, it gives him a bit more licence to get forward.
"He is still playing with a bit of a knee problem but we are trying to manage it. We are a much different side when he is in the team.
"The balance of the team is much better and we are more of a threat on the right-hand side."
As well as Demetriou, the likes of Rico Henry, Andy Taylor and Liam Kinsella have all impressed in full-back roles this season.
And O'Driscoll admits he has been delighted with the squad strength in that area.
He said: "Kinsella is probably a midfield player but he has come into three of the most difficult away games at full-back and been terrific.
"He is one for the future. Jason – is he a full-back, is he a wide midfielder, is he a winger?
"He is one that catches the eye because he plays so far forward. Rico can play one up or one down. Taylor has also done well there. The balance of the squad there is good.
"If we have attacking full-backs, it means the midfielders in front of them can pop up in spaces to cause teams problems."
Meanwhile, Demetriou admits he is enjoying playing with the rejuvenated Forde who has featured a lot more since O'Driscoll replaced Dean Smith.
The defender said: "Forde is a really intelligent player. He has great ability with both his left foot and right foot and he seems to drift into the middle which gives me space.
"He is playing more since the new gaffer came in. I'm not quite sure why, maybe Sean trusts him a little bit more. But he is relishing the role.
"He is very easy to play with because he has got a lot of quality."
