Walsall boss highlights 'fantastic' Aaron Pressley impact - at both ends

Lee Grant has highlighted the importance of Walsall top scorer Aaron Pressley - at both ends of the pitch.

Pressley moved on to double figures when he headed Walsall back into the lead just 11 minutes from time during their 3-1 win at Colchester on Saturday.

But Grant was keen to acknowledge his impact in both boxes, as his cited the build-up to the third goal for Courtney Clarke as a prime example.

“We’re in the 91st-minute, he’s defending a long throw and clearing it for his other striker to run half the length of the pitch for the third goal.

“That shows you his level of importance: his work, his fight, his energy for the team. He’s giving us a lot when it comes to that.

“Then his goals are a just reward for his concentration and focus in the big moments. Being in the right positions, which we keep encouraging him to do.

“So it’s fantastic for him.”

‘Positive’ - Grant on impact of Walsall subs

In terms of the substitutions, Clarke marked his emergence with his first goal of the season, after seizing on a rebounded effort from fellow substitute Andy Dallas.

On the changes, Grant added: “Really positive. I think the group understand that now. They’ve seen over the last over the first 13 league games that I’m going to make changes.

“You’ve got to be ready. If you feel flat or disappointed that you’ve not started, then you’re probably still going to get an opportunity whether it’s from the bench or the following weeks.

“So be ready. The lads have taken it on, which is credit to them. We have to encourage them to do that and for them to buy into that.

“But they’re buying into that and are producing on that front.”