Roman Dixon on brink of Walsall injury return after lengthy spell out

Lee Grant has revealed that Walsall full-back Roman Dixon is on the cusp of a return after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The 21-year-old, who joined Walsall in the summer following his release by Everton, has not featured in the league since making his debut, as a half-time substitute during their 3-0 win at Gillingham on August 15.

Dixon attempted to make his comeback in the EFL Trophy, but was forced off just 18 minutes into the Saddlers’ 6-1 drubbing against Stevenage at Bescot last month.

Grant then outlined the importance of Dixon working his way to full match fitness - and there have been vital signs of progression on that front over the past week-and-a-half.

“Roman has trained with us for the last 10 days consistently unbroken,” head coach Grant revealed.

“That’s really positive. We’re really pleased about where Roman is and we’re getting to the stage now where he’s available.”

Walsall will welcome Elicha Ahui back, after the right-back served his one-match suspension during the 4-2 defeat against Salford City on Monday night following his red card.

Declan Skura deputised for the Saddlers right-back, as Ryan Leak partnered James Connolly in the centre of defence, as Walsall suffered their first league defeat of the season.

Courtney Clarke also went down early in the second half and there was a stoppage in play while he received treatment.

The Walsall winger was then pickpocketed for Jorge Grant for the Ammies’ second goal, before being substituted moments later.

But Grant has confirmed that Clarke is fit and available ahead of their trip to Colchester United on Saturday - and added that Walsall have no fresh injury problems.

Antony Evans, Alex Pattison (both hamstring) and Harry Williams (Achilles) remain long-term absentees for the Saddlers.