Darrell Clarke: Walsall a million miles away from signing

The 42-year-old has targeted another wide man this month after landing 18-year-old Jack Nolan from Championship side Reading.

Defensive midfielder Nathan Sheron also joined the club on-loan last week, but Clarke insists the club aren't close to securing another winger – a position the manager has highlighted as a priority.

"Like I said before, I'm still looking to add an experienced wide player," he said.

"As it stands at the minute we're a million miles away, out of our wage brackets at the minute to be honest, so we'll keep working away.

"We look after our money at this football club so we'll see what develops come the end of the window, because things can move quickly."

Meanwhile, defender Mat Sadler has hailed Walsall's versatility this season.

Several players have covered for injuries and tactical switches this campaign, and Sadler believes it's that ability to play across several positions on the pitch that is proving successful for the club.

"The whole group have (had to show versatility)," he said.

"You've seen Rory Holden put in fantastic performances in the middle of the park.

"Same with Liam Kinsella, the lad is a bit of an unsung hero in that he just gets on with wherever he's played.

"I think I was on commentary one day and he played left-wing-back.

"He just gets on with where he plays and plays exactly the same way.

"Clarkey (James Clarke) has shown that he can go out wide in full-back either side.

"Norms (Cameron Norman) did the same against Salford."

On-loan midfielder Holden came under fire earlier in the season for underwhelming performances on the right wing, prompting criticism from Saddlers fans.

His displays have vastly improved since the 22-year-old was moved to a more central position, resulting in a standing ovation from the home fans when he was substituted against Crawley – and Clarke has been pleased with the youngster's progress.

“Rory’s done well for the last six or seven weeks," he added.

"He’s technically a very good player.

"I think I gave him a disservice thinking he could have been a wide player early on and I think that’s why fans got on his case but you can the appreciation when he's coming off.

"He’s a good player, I like him and he’s got a fantastic attitude.

"He’s always top of the training stats all the time and he’s done well in the mill there.”