Walsall set for double injury boost, but doubt remains over Roman Dixon

Walsall defensive duo Declan Skura and Rico Browne are set to return for the visit of Rochdale on Saturday, although Roman Dixon is still a major doubt.

Skura sat out the Saddlers’ goalless stalemate at Exeter City last weekend due to a leg issue, which forced him off at half-time during their 2-2 draw against Crewe Alexandra four days earlier.

Browne has missed the past two games with a calf issue, after he was withdrawn at the interval during their 3-2 victory over Accrington Stanley at Bescot on August 29.

However, both have been passed fit and will further bolster the Saddlers’ defensive ranks this weekend.

“Declan is fine. On the weekend [at Exeter], he will still feeling a little bit of a sensation in the area that he was forced to come off against Crewe,” head coach Grant explained.

“Again, trying to be smart with our decision-making, particularly while we still have the bodies. Declan is absolutely fine and we’ve got four bodies absolutely fighting and scrapping for those two slots right now, and I love it.”

He continued: “We’re in a pretty good place. We welcomed Leaky back into the fold last week and Rico will be available this weekend.”

Skura has previously featured in every game for Walsall prior to their trip to Exeter, which saw Ryan Leak start at his expense following his recovery from a groin injury.

Courtney Clarke was also a major doubt ahead of Exeter, but started on the right wing for Walsall, who extended their unbeaten league start to five matches.

Dixon has not featured since making his debut from the bench in a 3-0 victory at Gillingham in their League Two opener on August 15.

The right-back has missed the past five games with a knock and this weekend is also likely to come toon soon for Dixon, despite him returning to full training last Thursday

“Probably over the next 24 hours, we’ll know more about Roman, but my suspicion is that it will come too quickly for him,” Grant added.