'I really do' - Mat Sadler backs Rico Richards to show his value at Walsall
Mat Sadler says Walsall loanee Rico Richards has a role to play during the second half of the season.
The 22-year-old, who is on loan from local rivals Port Vale, has played just 44 minutes across his four substitute appearances in League Two this term.
Richards has impressed in the knockout stages of the EFL Trophy - scoring twice in a 2-1 win at Stevenage in the round of 32 in early December.
He was deployed as a striker once again and registered an assist during the Saddlers' 4-2 defeat at Northampton Town in the last 16.
Asked if Richards has a role to play for Walsall, boss Sadler said: "I think so, I really do. We'll use different guys in that role in the future [in attack].
"Rico showed what he can do the other night [against Northampton] and could have an impact for us in the second half of the season.
"Especially if we flip between the two eights, the pivot, a six and a [No] 10 because I think he adds that quality to a lot of defences.
"The same as Courtney [Clarke] so expect we're going to keep utilising the squad in the way we're going to have to."
It was confirmed last week that Richards will remain on loan at Bescot until the end of the season along with goalkeeper Myles Roberts and leading scorer Kanu.
Richards was an unused substitute when Walsall registered their first win of 2026 with a 3-1 victory over Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park on Saturday.
Sadler reshuffled his midfield, as Jamie Jellis played in a more advanced position, which could also open up a possible role for Richards in future.
In total, the former West Brom academy product has made 10 appearances for the Saddlers, scoring twice and registering two assists.
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