No easy option for Saddlers, says Walsall boss Jon Whitney

The Saddlers have built a reputation over the past five years as one of the most attractive teams in the Football League thanks to their attacking, possession based game.

It's a philosophy that was first implemented five years ago when Whitney worked under former manager Dean Smith.

Now in charge himself, Whitney is determined to stick to the same principles. But the boss believes it takes time for new players to adapt to the club's methods.

"We are a technical team and we want to play high-tempo football," the former Hull defender said.

"It's a difficult style to master. We want players to be able to decide between four or five options every time they are on the ball.

"The easy option is to go route one.

"When we signed players in the summer, we made sure we brought in people who were open to learn.

"It takes time to build but you can see we are getting there.

"The great thing for me as a manager is that there is no lack of work ethic or desire. They are such an honest group and that is why they deserved to beat Bolton.

"They have resilience and willpower and they are starting to get rewarded for all their hard work."

Walsall battled their way to a 1-0 win over Bolton on Saturday despite seeing Joe Edwards sent off after just 16 minutes.

And Whitney felt you could see in that how his players have improved.

"They are taking responsibility and understanding how to play at certain times of a game," he continued.

"Every game is an opportunity to thinking: 'What did we do well?' 'Why did we get the result?' and 'What we can take forward?'

"I thought the discipline from them against Bolton was outstanding.

"I thought the way we stayed on our feet and didn't commit too many fouls was great. That was the secret for me.

"There were times on the edge of the box where we just stayed up and dictated play."

Whitney tinkered with his starting line-up against Phil Parkinson's side, with the boss switching Jason McCarthy from centre-back to right-back – a position he excelled in while on loan at Wycombe last season.

That move allowed Edwards to partner Adam Chambers in central midfield. And Whitney hinted he plans to use the duo in those rules in the future.

"Jason enjoys playing right-back," Whitney added.

"He played the majority of his season last year for Wycombe at right-back.

"He enjoys getting forward and he's got the energy so he gives us a bit of a link.

"Joe also enjoys playing in midfield and that gives Adam Chambers less responsibility if you've got Joe in there because he competes really well.

"But against Bolton every man did their job. We didn't panic and we kept the ball.

"I think having the experience of James O'Connor back helped.

"In the last 20-25 minutes, he was excellent as Bolton looked to get the ball into our box. His experience told."