Mason Hancock embraces "healthy competition" at Walsall amid wing-back battle

The 22-year-old, signed from Scottish Championship side Airdrieonians earlier in the summer, made his debut in the Saddlers' 2-1 win over Swindon at Bescot on Saturday. 

Fellow summer signing Vincent Harper was not included in the squad, while right wing-back Connor Barrett scored the winning goal, assisted by Courtney Clarke, who made his debut from the bench in midfield.

Hancock feels each of them can offer something different and complement one another throughout the season.

Walsall competition 'very healthy'

"Competition is very, very healthy. I have a great relationship with Vincent [Harper] both on and off the pitch," Hancock said. 

"And what I will say is that I think all four of us wing-backs across the right side and left side are all completely different players. 

"That might be a personal opinion, but there are things that those three can do that I can't and vice versa.

"We're going to work hard and the fundamentals will always be there. But when it comes down to quality, we all offer something different and we'll enjoy that season."

Hancock impressed in pre-season and consolidated his strong start with a solid debut on the opening weekend. 

Settling at Walsall has been 'easy'

Hitting the ground running was the goal all along for Hancock, but he feels the transition has been made easier by the environment within the dressing room.

"It's been easy for me to settle in, it's not been tough at all," he added. 

"The chemistry seems amazing and it definitely shows on the pitch. Being able to come in and settle so quickly allows me to do what I'm here to do. 

"And that is to perform on the pitch and show early doors the player I can be."