Jon Whitney willing to take the blame for Walsall

The Saddlers, who entertain Bradford at the Banks's Stadium, currently sit 16th in League One and have been knocked out of all three cup competitions.

That has led to unrest among supporters with many believing a talented squad should be performing better.

Whitney, though, believes the team's current woes will lead to success in the future and has asked fans to remain patient with his squad.

"There's lots of good things happening at Walsall Football Club – I can see it I've just got to help the fans to see it," the boss said. "The fans want to be positive I know they do. They want us to be successful.

"I understand their criticism but please keep aiming it at me because I can handle it," he said.

"I'm used to it from my playing days but I can also see a bright light at the end of the tunnel.

"I think the greatest rewards come when you overcome big obstacles.

"We all know performances have not been as consistent as we would like.

"But I'm an optimist and I'm going to keep with those traits, that's what has given me success in my life. I've been successful with whatever I have put my mind to.

"We are right at the start of a long-term project and I'm looking forward to the fight and the challenge ahead because we will get it right."

The Saddlers have been without influential winger Kieron Morris for the past few weeks after the 22-year-old suffered a recurrence of an ankle problem.

But while Morris looks set to miss today's clash with the Bantams, Whitney expects him to be fit for the Boxing Day trip to Port Vale.

"Kieron had a second injection into his ankle on Monday," the boss continued. "The specialist was really happy with it. It has healed well and looks nice and solid.

"Bradford may be too soon but he'll definitely be ready for the next game at Port Vale."