Walsall boss Mat Sadler issues rallying cry ahead of Harrogate clash

The 40-year-old, who was nominated for League Two manager of the season this week, has come under fire following a dismal run of two wins from 17 games. 

The Saddlers remain in the final automatic promotion place on goal difference heading into the final four games of the season. 

They had previously boasted a 12-point lead at the League Two summit in January and Sadler admits that he is continuing to learn on the job after a season of extremes.

He said: "You learn about yourself all the time and you never stop learning. 

"That's the case in every industry and we just lean on those experiences to guide us through things. 

"The biggest thing I know in football is that you're never as bad as you think and you're never as good as you think. 

"Remaining level with that is exactly how I feel in my behaviours and that's exactly what I want to show to the group." 

Despite their poor run of form, Sadler has issued a rallying cry for his players to bounce back from setbacks ahead of their home clash against Harrogate Town on Good Friday.

"The mental side of the game is always a continual thing, especially in sport," he added.

"It was great seeing Rory McIlroy's success this week with the adversity he has come through. 

"You saw the emotion from him at the end because it had clearly been a tough road for him. 

"I think we can draw strength from things like that. There are loads of examples out there in terms of proving people wrong. 

"Anyone who wants us to fail, we'll try to prove them wrong and that's what we'll work hard to do."