Nicky Devlin: Walsall are on the up

The Saddlers ended last year sitting 19th in League One, just two points and two places above the relegation zone.

That campaign was Devlin’s first in English football after the 24-year-old was snapped up from Scottish outfit Ayr.

And he believes a more successful season is now in store, both for him personally and the team.

“I’m quite a harsh critic but for the club, and for me personally, last season was a wee bit disappointing,” the full-back said.

“Personally, and as a team, we could have done better and that’s what we’ll be looking to do this year.

“Come the end of the season we don’t want to be trying to stay up again.

“I thought I did alright at times, and I started the season well, but maybe I didn’t always perform at the level I’m capable of. Myself, and the team as a whole are definitely looking to improve on last season.”

Devlin has enjoyed a busy summer with the Scotsman getting engaged and buying a new house.

But he admitted he was delighted to join up with his teammates after Walsall reported back for pre-season training yesterday.

And he feels the experience he gained last year will stand him in good stead for the new campaign.

“I’ve had a good break but I think if you asked most of the boys, we’re itching to get back into it now,” he continued.

“Hopefully I can use the experience from last year and kick on as best I can.

“When I came down, to begin with, I was coming into the unknown.

“I’d never played a game at any level in England. So I think I’ll be better for that first year because I learned a lot on and off the pitch.

“With there being an extra 10 games down here you need to look after yourself, you have to be able to recover quicker.

“The standard of player is also better down here and I’ve had to adapt.

“Hopefully this year I can use all the experience from last year and have a better season personally and with the club.”