Joe Edwards: Let's make Walsall mark in 2017

The Saddlers have so far endured an inconsistent campaign with Jon Whitney's side having won seven, drawn 10 and lost eight of their 25 games in League One.

Edwards was one of 11 new players brought to the club in the summer. But he feels the team now has the base needed to kick on.

"It was a new group at the start of the season – a transition period where it could have gone either way," he said.

"I think we have got a solid base now. And when you have got that base you can build on it very easily. It only takes two or three wins in a row and you can be in the top six or at least the top half.

"We have got a chance now. Maybe a few fresh faces will come in. A few have gone back already. Maybe those fresh faces will bring a bit more competition which is always good. For me it's going to be an exciting year. We always say how good we are but we need to put in performances so the fans believe like we do."

While Edwards is hoping to see a few new faces at the Banks's this January, one player he is delighted to see stay is Jason McCarthy.

The promising defender has extended his loan from Premier League Southampton until the end of the season.

And Edwards admits he's been hugely impressed with the 21-year-old.

"It's brilliant news that Jason is staying," he added.

"He has been fantastic for us and is a really good player.

"He is athletic and runs all day. And he is one of those where if you tell him to do a job he will do it.

It's great news he is staying and if we can get a few more in as well that would be fantastic.

"But Jason staying shows where we are because he is an exciting prospect and I'm sure he has had some interest.

"But he wanted to stay here and prove to the gaffer the faith he has shown in him is correct."