Walsall injury update: Courtney Clarke ankle to be assessed as midfield pair return

Byfield is hopeful that Clarke will come through the issue in time to be available, but could not confirm if he will be able to call upon him.

Walsall to assess Courtney Clarke ahead of Crewe

"Courtney Clarke is one that we have to assess but other than that it's a strong squad," Byfield confirmed.

"He rolled his ankle on Thursday. You're looking at him and wondering if he is going to be alright or not. 

"But it's one where we just have to keep assessing him and hopefully he will be fine." 

The 22-year-old has made 44 appearances for Walsall since joining from Eastbourne Borough last summer, scoring two goals and setting up six more. 

Clarke has come off the bench in each of his last four games - including the Saddlers' 1-0 defeat at Salford City on Tuesday. 

That proved to be Mat Sadler's final game at the helm after he was relieved of his duties following a run of just two wins in 14 games in League Two. 

Byfield will take temporary charge of Walsall when they visit Crewe this weekend, with an appointment of a new head coach likely to be made next week. 

Walsall midfield pair set to be available

Alfie Chang returned to full training this week after a spell out of the team as he nursed a knee problem. 

The midfielder, who has played just three times since re-joining the club in January, has not featured since a 3-1 home defeat against Barnet on February 7.

Alex Pattison was also absent in midweek due to illness, but Byfield has passed the pair available for selection.

"They are both raring to go," he added.