Opposing views: Walsall
Ahead of our first game of the season, we take a look at the views and opinions of a fan of our opponents Walsall.
1. How do you expect your team to do this season?
I expect us to challenge for the play-offs, providing we can sign another midfielder and striker…
I expect us to challenge for the play-offs, providing we can sign another midfielder and striker before the season starts. If not I can see us struggling around mid-table/lower part of League One. My head says sixth, heart says fourteenth, based on the current squad.
2. Who should we watch out for?
Sam Mantom, last years player of the season and Amadou Bakayoko who is an emerging youth prospect who actually came on for 20 minutes against you guys towards the back end of last season.
3. What are your thoughts on your manager and his signings this season?
Good manager, seems to pick up players that nobody else wants and turns them (some of them at least) into half decent team players. Likes to give youth a chance which I like to see. I think James O’Connor will prove to be a good signing at this level, and I’ll reserve judgement on the rest.
4. What are your thoughts on your board and off-field club activities?
No comment, that could open a can of worms. Best leave it at that. Our conference facilities are great though, don’t you know?
5. Which one Vale player would you take past or present to add value to your squad?
Tom Pope, we could do with a big bustling centre-forward who knows where the goal is.
6. How do you expect Vale to do this season?
I was surprised with Vale last season to be honest, I thought they may struggle…
I was surprised with Vale last season to be honest, I thought they may struggle, although that may be a reality this season as I understand the budget has been cut significantly. I think it may be mid-lower part of League One. I hope that if we don’t go up that you stay up. I love the away day at Vale.
7. What is your team’s most memorable game with Vale?
3-2 at our place on the opening day of the season a few years back now, with Merson in charge of Walsall, and Dean Smith playing at centre-half for you. Opening day, lots of sunshine, a few goals, and three points for the Saddlers!
8. A score prediction?
1-1 or 2-1 Walsall. Grimes and Bradshaw for Walsall, Pope for Vale.