Priestley Farquharson aiming to 'show the real' version of himself at Walsall

The 28-year-old shone in the heart of defence with a commanding performance to help Walsall hold their Championship opponents to a goalless draw. 

They were ultimately consigned to a 4-3 defeat in the penalty shoot-out, but Farquharson is hopeful that this is the moment he can finally prove his worth in Walsall colours.

"I just want to show everyone what I can do because you've seen bits of me and then I'd come out and come back in," Farquharson said.

"But I just want people to see the real me and what I'm actually capable of, which is what I showed tonight against a Championship team. 

"That's what I meant by unfinished business."

'Sometimes my body is not the same as everyone else'

Mat Sadler eased Farquharson back into the fold during pre-season and handed him his return with a late cameo from the bench in the 2-1 win over Swindon Town on the opening weekend.

Farquharson's spell at Bescot has been plagued with a number of injury problems, which has restricted the defender to just 26 appearances for the club so far. 

And while he is raring to go again, he also understands that the focus needs to be on building his minutes for the time being.

"I'm raring to get going but then I've got to understand that sometimes my body is not the same as everybody else," he acknowledged.

"So I trust the way they've planned my pre-season and easing my way back in because they don't want me to rush. 

"I've just got to accept that. I might have to change it throughout my career but just taking it slow and building my up. 

"When I get my chance, I'll take it and just keep building. I trust the gaffer and I trust Mark Fenner in helping me do that." 

Farquharson: Harry Williams 'will comeback stronger'

Farquharson's thigh injury in August last year presented Harry Williams with his first team breakthrough at Walsall last term, as the youngster made 40 appearances in all competitions. 

Williams is set to miss the whole of the 2025-26 season after rupturing his Achilles during the Saddlers' 1-0 defeat against AFC Wimbledon in the League Two play-off final back in May. 

And Farquharson opened up about the support Williams showed during his spell on the sidelines and backed his teammate to comeback stronger from his own injury woes.

"What really helped was the boys and the same with Harry [Williams]. He was helping me when I was injured and I'm doing exactly the same with him," he added.

"How he went out [in the League Two play-off final at Wembley]. I was gutted for him but he's a strong lad and he'll be back. 

"Everyone is so good with the injured players. If someone is feeling down, the squad is really united in that sort of aspect."