Walsall predicted XI: Lee Grant selection headaches and Aaron Pressley chance

After pulling off a magical upset at Bristol City last week, new Walsall head coach Lee Grant will be hoping to continue his winning start on his league debut at Gillingham on Saturday.

Jed Ward rubberstamped his credentials as the Saddlers’ new No 1 with a staggering 10 saves at Ashton Gate.

The 23-year-old, signed from Bristol Rovers earlier this summer, was named in the Carabao Cup team of the round with an unrivalled rating of 9.82 (via WhoScored).

Grant opted for a 3-4-3 in his first competitive game, but predicting his line-ups and formation could be a little less straightforward than the days of the 3-5-2 under Mat Sadler.

Headaches for Grant

Ryan Leak returned to training on Wednesday, after he was forced with a groin issue in the first half last week, and is being monitored ahead of the weekend.

James Connolly slotted in seamlessly after replacing Leak to help augment an excellent defensive display alongside Declan Skura and Harrison Burke.

It would not be surprising if Grant sticks with the same defensive trio, unless he switches to a back-four, which would then make it very interesting to see who is the unfortunate one to miss out.

That is a positive dilemma to have though. The more depth, the better - and the performance against the Robins has certainly given Grant a number of selection headaches.

Midfield dynamics look promising

Sven Sprangler and Isaac Moore appear to have nailed down the two deeper midfield roles at this point, although Leeds United loanee Charlie Crew showcased his quality during his debut cameo from the bench.

The dynamics between Sprangler and Moore complement each other well. Sprangler selflessly sits and love to tackle, while Moore doesn’t shirk his defensive responsibilities, but also likes to get the ball forward.

Elicha Ahui (who started last week), Rico Browne and new signing Roman Dixon will be battling it for the full-back or wing-back role on the right, while Mason Hancock has so far been the favoured choice on the left.

Chance for Pressley to kick-on

Reece Smith has looked a seriously exciting prospect since he joined for an undisclosed fee from Harrogate Town. The left winger clearly loves to take defenders on and consolidated a strong display in the cup with an assist for Aaron Pressley’s winner.

Courtney Clarke was reserved in his attacking role on the right, but was selfless and tireless in his play to help protect Ahui.

Albert Adomah will be vying for a spot with Clarke on the right, although Lewis Simper could quite feasibly play there too.

As for the attack, Pressley made a positive start to the campaign by getting off the mark with the match-winner.

The Scotsman had his challenges last term, but hopefully his goal can serve as a platform for him to kick-on at Walsall.

Recap of predicted XI

(3-4-3): Ward; Burke, Skura, Connolly; Browne, Sprangler, Moore, Hancock; Clarke, Pressley, Smith.

Subs: Kilroy, Ahui, Crew, Adomah, Simper, Sodje, Dallas.