Walsall pre-season: Bags of exercise for the Saddlers on tour

The Saddlers are currently in the Lake District at the relentless Cassius Camps – a fitness programme designed to test their physical and mental capabilities.

Yesterday the players spent time completing intense obstacle courses, climbing mountains and swimming in Lake Windermere.

But while the challenges are a test of physical endurance, their primary aim is to build morale and team spirit within the group.

And Whitney feels the tests prove Saddlers fans will see a side with real character next season.

“We have seen a phenomenal effort from the players,” the boss said. “As a staff we are very proud. Their attitude could not have been any better. Now it’s all about translating it on to the pitch.

“When things are going great anyone can play. But when it’s a Tuesday night, when it’s pelting down with rain and howling with wind – that is when you have to dig deep. In the past we haven’t responded well enough when things have gone against us.

"It is something we reflected on last year and something we looked at with our recruitment. We had to make sure we got the right people in.

“There are no egos in this group. We have only brought in players who want to improve and who want to be part of something special.”

Whitney is particularly pleased with the attitude his players have shown while up in Cumbria.

“You can’t run the miles, complete the obstacle courses, climb hills and swim a mile in Lake Windermere without the support of your team-mates,” he said.

“I stood with my mouth open at times because they had to keep going. There was no complacency. Nobody took the easy option.

“The attitude of our players couldn’t have been better. Not one them moaned despite the stuff they had to do.

“The lads inspired each other and that is exactly what we want. As a group we want to enthuse one another. Together we want to draw out that extra five, 10 per cent.

“We will now take that into the season. This is a special group, their attitude, their willingness to run and their work ethic is second to none.

“If you weren’t up for the fight you would crumble. But nobody did. It was fantastic to see.”