Lee Grant "confident" Walsall will continue to rise to "different challenges"

Lee Grant believes Walsall can take “confidence” from the way they have risen to different challenges so far when they host League One side Leyton Orient in the Carabao Cup second round.

Walsall have collected two wins and a draw in all competitions under his leadership - including a memorable 1-0 success at Championship outfit Bristol City in the previous round.

The Saddlers are yet to concede this season and will be looking to continue their new found defensive solidity in the second of three home games in the space of seven days.

Grant: Walsall should “take confidence” from positive start

“Whether we’re playing in a cup game, or whether we’re playing in a league game against Gillingham or Grimsby, there are going to be different tests,” head coach Grant said.

“Leyton Orient will be a different test to Accrington. We get to play at home on both occasions, but they’re going to look and feel different.

“There are going to be different things demanded of each and every department, and each individual.

“But collectively we have to find a way. We’re in the early stages of our learning, but important that we can take some confidence from the fact that we’re doing OK in these different tests.”

The O’s bolster their attacking ranks

Leyton Orient will offer another test of the Saddlers’ mettle after making a relatively positive start to the new season.

Richie Wellens’ charges beat Oxford United 2-0 in the first round and responded to a narrow opening day defeat with a 2-0 victory at Wigan Athletic in the league on Saturday.

They have had to deal with the loss of last season’s League One top scorer Dom Ballard this summer, but have found capable replacements in the form of ex-Grimsby Town attacker Jaze Kabia and Yusuf Akhamrich.

Kabia opened his goal scoring account against AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Trophy last week, while Akhamrich got off the mark at Wigan.

Grant “satisfied” with early Walsall signs

Meanwhile, there has been a marked difference in terms of playing style since Grant took charge and the performance was applauded by the Walsall supporters at full-time - despite them failing to find the breakthrough against Grimsby Town on the weekend.

“Some of the things we’re asking them to do is not easy against aggressive sides and good players,” Grant continued.

“We’re asking them to take the ball under pressure, but we’re also asking them to dial in tactically to what we’re asking.

“When there are opportunities to exploit space, which we’ve earned by taking the ball in tight situations at times.

“I want them to use the space and exploit that as well. We’ve got to get better at lots of things, but I think in general, the group are trying and I can be satisfied with that.”

Ryan Leak remains a strong doubt despite returning to training a fortnight ago following the groin issue he sustained in the first round at Ashton Gate.

Alex Pattison (hamstring) and Harry Williams (Achilles) are also unavailable.