"Be front and centre" - Lee Grant sets challenge for Walsall loanee Isaac Moore

Lee Grant has called on Walsall loanee Isaac Moore to “set the tone” from midfield this season.

The 20-year-old, who joined on loan from Premier League new boys Coventry City earlier this month, has regularly started in a double pivot alongside Sven Sprangler during pre-season.

Grant has been pleased with the energy he has showed since arriving at the club and has urged him to seize his opportunity in League Two.

Grant wants Moore to be “front and centre” for Walsall

“I’ve really enjoyed it in terms of the way they’re [Moore and Sprangler] competing and going about their work day-to-day,” Grant said.

“Long may that continue because I think it will be really good for Isaac.

“But I’m also expecting Isaac to set the tone for the group and not just be someone in here that’s look to learn and play that shadow role.

“Go and be front and centre, and I think he does that with his performances.

“You’ve seen his energy and intensity, and that’s really pleasing.”

Walsall travelled to Luton Town for a behind-closed-doors friendly on Wednesday and conclude pre-season with a home clash against League One outfit Notts County on Saturday.

Grant targets strong end to pre-season

The Saddlers are yet to taste victory in front of spectators in pre-season, but Grant hopes the performance against the Magpies will be a closer representation of how he wants his team to play.

The Walsall head coach added: “We’re in a period of time now where we’re getting close to where we want to be in terms of the Bristol City game just around the corner.

“League fixtures are on the horizon and they will come quickly.

“We don’t necessarily have everybody we would want with us right now. We’ve got a bit of work to do on that front, but we’re close.

“Now we need to make sure that the performances over the next week [against Luton and Notts County] represent a bit closer to what we want to be.”