O'Driscoll: Steely Bryn Morris can make a big impact
Head coach Sean O'Driscoll believes new signing Bryn Morris will bring some added steel to the Walsall midfield.
The 19-year-old joined on a two-month loan from Middlesbrough last week and could make his debut tonight as the Saddlers visit Doncaster in League One.
And O'Driscoll believes the talented youngster will impress in his time at the Banks's, after previously managing him while he was in charge of England Under-19s.
"He's a good player and I'm pleased we've brought him in on loan," O'Driscoll said.
"I know him from my time with the FA so I have a knowledge of his character.
"Bryn probably wasn't the most technically-gifted player in the under-19s squad because we had some outstanding ones, but he was definitely the captain.
"He was the one who pulled it all together.
"It's important to have that type of character so I think he'll fit into the group really well as he's cut from the same cloth as a lot of the players here.
"When you are trying to strengthen the group of players, it has proved quite tricky to bring someone in who won't upset the balance of the team.
"He's adaptable, flexible and can play in numerous positions. For a young man, he's a mature individual."
As well as being good on the ball, O'Driscoll believes Morris provides valuable cover for Adam Chambers should the skipper pick up an injury or get suspended.
"That is one position that when you look at it we probably haven't got anybody of the same ilk as Adam." the boss said. "He does terrific for the team. I'm not saying Bryn is a direct replacement but he has got a more defensive head on his shoulders than some of the other midfielders we have got."
Morris has previously enjoyed loans at Burton Albion, Coventry and York with O'Driscoll confirming that experience also attracted him to striking a deal with him this January.
"Walsall have a history of taking young players from bigger clubs on loan," he added.
"Sometimes the first loan is difficult for them.
"Bryn has been out two or three times so he understands the different aspects of being on loan.
"And he was keen to come which is important.
"Because it is a youth loan he can also get a game at Middlesbrough if needs be so there a lot of positives to it."
