Lee Grant attempting to strike "technical and physical" balance at Walsall

Lee Grant says he wants to “marry” physical and technical quality in his new-look Walsall squad next season.

Walsall have added significant physicality to the midfield in particular, with the arrivals of 31-year-old Sven Sprangler and 6ft 1in Coventry City loanee Isaac Moore.

Sprangler played the first 45 minutes in defensive midfield in the Saddlers’ goalless draw at Leamington in their pre-season opener.

20-year-old Moore then took over from Sprangler in the centre of the park during the second half.

Grant wants to strike “technical and physical” balance

Grant insists that the priority remains discovering technical quality, but that he also wants to strike a balance in terms of physical superiority.

The Walsall head coach said: “The first thing we’re looking for is: do we have good players?

“Then secondly, do we think these players can compete physically in this division and help us in that regard.

“Certainly, Isaac, Sven and the others you mentioned there are all very good physically.

“It’s important for us to have that and be a side that can compete in that aspect.

“We’ll continue to look at that, but it’s not the be all and end all, because we want to be a good football team as well.

“So, we have to marry the two together.”

“Elicha is no different” - Grant on plans for Ahui

Elicha Ahui also made his first appearance in Walsall colours despite joining the club in January 2025.

The 22-year-old suffered an ACL injury on loan at Drogheda in June 2025, which ruled him out for 10 months.

On his plans for Ahui next season, Grant added: “As with everybody else, there is an opportunity for people to stake their claim and their position.

“Elicha is no different. The message to the group will be to go after every day’s training. When you get an opportunity, give it everything.

“Like I say, Elicha and everybody else have the same opportunity in that respect.”