Walsall trio dealing with hamstring injuries
Three Walsall players are aiming to overcome hamstring injuries this week and be back in contention for Saturday’s trip to Northampton.
Joe Edwards, Tyler Roberts and Liam Roberts all missed Saturday’s win against Scunthorpe with hamstring problems.
None of them are thought to be serious. Boss Jon Whitney just insists the trio ‘were too risky’ for the Iron triumph.
“Joe trained on Thursday and Friday, but it was a bit too soon,” he said.
“Other lads have done well so I didn’t want to really (put him in), especially with the hamstring Joe has had.
“It was too risky. He has got to train for, at least, another two or three full days before I can really consider him for first team duties.”
Edwards had been a regular in midfield until missing the past few games with the injury.
Tyler Roberts – who is on loan from Albion until January – has put in some stellar showings recently and been linked with a move to many top sides, including French club Marseille.
Liam Roberts is a product of the club’s youth system and usurped Mark Gillespie for the No.1 spot.
All three have proved key players for the Saddlers, but face a fight to get back in the side once fit.
Whitney’s charges have won their last three games in League One.
“Tyler just tweaked his hamstring on Thursday,” said Whitney.
“Very slight but, again, it was too risky.
“We knew we needed energy up there (on Saturday) and I think Amadou Bakayoko occupied them and was always a threat – his energy was outstanding.
He added: “Liam tweaked his hammy in the last game (the loss to Bury in the Checkatrade Trophy).
“Gilly has waited and came in and did really well.
“Players have got to be ready when called upon, and this group of players are.”