Comment: Why Mat Sadler should stick, rather than twist with his Walsall midfield
Ryan Finnigan had an afternoon to remember during Walsall's thrilling 4-2 success against Newport County at Rodney Parade on Saturday.
On his return to the team, Finnigan scored his first two league goals in Walsall colours to propel them to a first win in four games in League Two.
His recall was enforced after Brandon Comley was struck by illness in the week. Many suspected Finnigan to slot in at the base of midfield, but Mat Sadler opted for Charlie Lakin to play the deeper role.
The dynamics worked a treat, and the midfield three complimented one another extremely well. Lakin, as selfless as ever, created a platform for Finnigan to make those late runs into the box, while Courtney Clarke was given the license to roam.
There is so much competition in the centre of the park, but the performance in South Wales suggests Sadler might have just stumbled across his most effective trio, at least for the foreseeable fixtures.
Courtney Clarke 'growing in maturity'
After his star showing on Saturday, Finnigan has certainly propelled himself into pole position to retain his place when Colchester United visit Bescot on Saturday.
Clarke is also growing in maturity with each game following his recent flurry of starts and is fast emerging as one of Walsall's chief creators.
The 22-year-old, signed from non-league Eastbourne Borough in the summer, has registered the most assists for Walsall in League Two this term (three).
There is still a rawness to his game, but he is gradually becoming more disciplined, and will only iron out those kinks with more experience.
That is exactly what he is getting at the moment, as Sadler continues to put his faith in yet another young player.
Depth and versatility across Walsall's midfield
Lewis Warrington made his return from a short-term ankle issue with a cameo from the bench, while Comley is likely to be available again on the weekend.
Jamie Jellis' fitness is less certain as he continues to nurse a groin issue, but the competition in midfield will only keep standards high.
Rico Richards continues to struggle for game time, as has Jake Hollman, who is currently out with a minor hamstring issue.
Even Jid Okeke and Albert Adomah have figured in the centre of the park at times, which only adds to the seemingly endless list of options.
It's definitely an area of strength for Walsall, but the most remarkable aspect is just how versatile many of them have been.
Finnigan himself noted after the game that he is comfortable playing in any of the three midfield slots, and Lakin has proven that he is also more than capable.
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