Rico Browne boosted by Darren Byfield backing in his quest to "keeping growing" at Walsall

Browne has suddenly emerged from the shadows and could potentially play an instrumental role for Walsall between now and the end of the season.

He went over two months without kicking a ball in League Two, but has reinvented himself as a right-back in the past three games in the Saddlers' back-four.

The result? Two clean sheets and seven points from a possible nine - which has reignited Walsall's push for the play-offs. 

The 22-year-old insists he has always had confidence in his own ability, but that having the backing of the man in the dugout has provided him with an extra boost.

'An extra confidence boost' - Browne on Byfield's faith

"I have the confidence in myself that I can push to that level and it's great that the gaffer feels the same way about me," Browne said.

"That's an extra confidence boost. I've just got to work at my game and keep growing.

"I've learned a lot and it's helped build me as a character too. 

"It's taught me what to expect from the game of football. I'm still in the early stages but I've got to keep putting in the work and make sure that the performances remain consistent."

Browne had spells in the team as a central defender in a back-three under Sadler, but had not featured since a 2-0 defeat at Cambridge United on New Year's Day. 

His first season heralded just three appearances in the EFL Trophy - although he has enjoyed somewhat of a breakout campaign in his second term with the Saddlers. 

In total, Browne has played 24 times in all competitions this season, registering one goal and one assist in the process.

Liberated by right-back switch

He had previously played right-back during his loan at Tamworth last term and was hailed for his "ball-playing qualities" by former Rushall Olympic boss Liam McDonald. 

The youngster feels his positional switch has enabled him to bring those attacking qualities to the fore and is hoping to increase his productivity at the top end of the pitch. 

"I feel like I'm able to show myself a lot more on the ball in this right-back position," he noted.

"My first thought is always to defend first because I am a defender, but I can also showcase myself going forward. 

"I'm selective with the times I do go forward and making sure I have an impact when I do." 

Browne on Byfield 'morale boost'

Byfield has overseen a remarkable mini-revival during his short stint as interim head coach - after collecting as many wins in his first three games (two) than Walsall had managed in their last 14 with Sadler at the helm. 

Browne believes the confidence and quality has always been in plentiful supply within the squad, but that Byfield has provided Walsall with a timely morale boost at a crucial juncture in the season. 

"The camp feels the same to a certain extent. We've always had the confidence and we know how good the squad is," he claimed.

"But sometimes in football, when a new manager takes over, there is always that boost of confidence and morale in the team."