Harrison Burke could be a 'leader in the making' at Walsall - Mat Sadler

Burke, who joined from non-league Chester City earlier in the summer, made his Walsall bow in the League Cup against Stoke City at the Bet365 Stadium last Tuesday. 

The 22-year-old helped the Saddlers hold the Championship outfit to a goalless draw, before they bowed out in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out defeat. 

He was handed his league debut four days later in the Saddlers' 2-1 win at newly-promoted Barnet alongside Derby County loanee Dan Cox. 

Sadler: Burke is a "leader in the making"

Sadler was pleased with how the pair performed and feels Burke has the potential to transform into a key leader in the future.

"Both [Burke and Cox] really acquitted themselves well. I don't think you can see two guys there that haven't played games before [at this level]," Sadler said.

"That's not what I see. Clearly different games, different teams, different formations, that they're going to be the challenges. 

"Particularly Harrison, he has played a load of games in his career and he has adapted to it. 

"At times, I think he got a little bit excited with the space that was in front of him. That will be stuff that we build on with him and he will learn from him. 

"Because he's a good kid and a leader in the making in the way that I see him carry himself."

Can Walsall expect any more outgoings?

Walsall have signed 12 new players and let a further 11 leave the club over the summer. 

When asked if Walsall can expect the rest of the squad to remain together, Sadler responded: "For what we want to do with it, yes I'm confident in that respect. 

"I'm very happy with our squad. We'll see what happens but very confident in the question you ask."