'Both do different things' - Mat Sadler on rotation of Walsall midfield duo
Mat Sadler says he will continue to alternate between Lewis Warrington and Brandon Comley at the base of the Walsall midfield.
Comley made his first league start in over two months during the Saddlers' 1-1 draw against local rivals Shrewsbury Town last weekend.
That result has seen second-place Notts County move to within just two points of table-toppers Walsall ahead of their top-of-the-table tussle in the early kick-off on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Warrington played the first hour of their 1-0 win in Oldham Athletic three days earlier and Sadler insists that both will continue to play an important part for Walsall this season.
'Different horses for different courses'
"Both of them do different things for us," boss Sadler explained.
"Brandon played very well [against Shrewsbury]. He was very athletic in the way that he played he connected us at times.
"Lewis started on Wednesday against Oldham and Brandon started at Gateshead. So it's different horses for different courses in that midfield area."
Warrington has started 14 of the Saddlers' 20 matches in League Two so far this term, whereas Comley has made just four league starts.
However, Comley has featured prominently from the bench and has been particularly key in helping Walsall close out games.
'I enjoy it' - Comley on midfield competition
On his competition with Warrington, Comley added: "I enjoy it. There is no bad blood there, it's just two people wanting to push to try and get that spot.
"We both play a really important part whether we start or not. Each person wants to start but it's good competition. That is key because it gives the gaffer good options and maintains momentum within the squad."
Comley is just two shy of reaching 300 career appearances, 127 of which he has represented Walsall, during his three-and-a-half years at the club.
As the longest-serving player in the squad, Comley has become a key leader in the dressing room alongside the likes of Aden Flint, Albert Adomah and Jamille Matt.
The Montserrat international has still played over 1,000 minutes across his 21 appearances in all competitions this term - with Sadler putting a strong emphasis on rotation.
And Comley has praised the Walsall boss for his ability to strike the balance and make everyone feel valued in the squad.
"It's a tough thing to do," the 30-year-old added. "Especially as we've got a good squad, but the most important thing is his honesty.
"Speaking to people and letting them know that you're not far off it, it's just a different selection today."
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